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Cummins Partners With Allison Transmission

15 December 2000

Cummins Partners With Allison Transmission to Power Diesel Hybrid Electric Drive System

    COLUMBUS, Ind.--Dec. 14, 2000--Representatives of Cummins Inc. joined those from General Motors (GM), Allison Transmission and New Flyer of America today as the West Coast's first hybrid-equipped transit bus was unveiled at the Orange County Transit Authority in Santa Ana, California. The new state-of-the-art transit vehicle was recently delivered to OCTA from bus manufacturer New Flyer of America.
    The hybrid-electric powertrain developed by Allison is powered by a modified Cummins ISB-270 with catalyzed soot filter. The combination of Cummins power with the Allison powertrain will increase fuel economy and reduce NOx (oxides of nitrogen) and PM (particulate matter) emissions, an attribute highly valued in smog-challenged Southern California.
    "Cummins is pleased to participate with GM, Allison and New Flyer to provide the best available technology to OCTA," said John Wall, Cummins Chief Technical Officer. "By expanding the use of Cummins power and aftertreatment technologies with low emissions drive system strategies, we will produce the most reliable products with minimal environmental impact. This complements our continued development of the total power system, which includes engines, filtration and aftertreatment components as a complete package for our customers."
    By modifying the ISB engine to perform with a hybrid electric drive system, Cummins continues its record of manufacturing products that meet emissions requirements equal to or below alternative fueled conventionally equipped vehicles. This project results in advanced diesel technology that is reliable, durable, and meets the needs of its clients without a major infrastructure change.
    "We are delighted to join with New Flyer and Cummins to bring a new generation of efficient, commercially viable and sustainable hybrid electric technology to today's transit systems," said Fred Cartwright, Program Manager for Allison Electric Drives. "This project reflects Allison's solid commitment to developing the type of alternative solutions that will enable transit systems operate clearer, quieter and more cost effectively."