Transporting to the Next-Generation: Cummins Announces Availability of X12 Powered MCI Coaches in 2019
Cummins Inc. has announced that beginning in 2019, X12 powered motor coaches will be available for delivery from Motor Coach Industries.
“Over the years of working with MCI, we’ve learned that coach customers expect their engines to provide the power they need in the lightest, smallest, most fuel efficient package that keeps them on the road,“ said Laura Chasse, general manager — Cummins North America bus engine business.
To meet these needs, the Cummins X12 boasts an innovative sculpted block design that results in a remarkably low engine weight of 2,150-pounds by eliminating unnecessary mass without compromising rigidity and performance. Delivering up to 455 hp (339 kW), the X12 power-to-weight ratio of 0.21 hp per pound (0.35 kW per kg) surpasses similar-sized products in the coach market.
Derived from the X15 engine, the XPI fuel system is scaled down in size for the 12-liter platform, but retains all the same robust characteristics. Along with the XPI fuel system, the Variable Geometry Turbocharger is central to the X12 engine architecture, providing versatility to meet the challenges of light-urban, sub-urban or inter-city drive cycles while delivering best-in-class uptime.
The X12 uses the latest Single Module aftertreatment system, which takes up to 60 percent less space and weighs up to 40 percent less than prior aftertreatment configurations. Combined engine and aftertreatment weight for the X12 is around 2,340 pound — significantly lower than that of any other heavy-duty engine.
Each of the technology decisions made with the X12 has allowed for a reduced size and weight of the overall system, offering more room in the engine compartment, which is better from a serviceability standpoint. “We are always looking for ways to improve the service and maintenance efficiency for technicians,“ said Patrick Scully, MCI executive vice president of sales and marketing.
“Validation work for the new engine has been underway since 2017 and will continue through to product launch in 2019, but by providing the latest technologies and the lightest heavy-duty engine in its class, we expect our customers to experience the lowest total cost of ownership with MCI coaches,“ concluded Scully.
“We are excited about the value Cummins and Motor Coach Industries will bring to the market with the next-generation X12. Built around improved uptime, fuel economy and providing a class-leading power-to-weight ratio, this really is an engine that is worth its weight,” said Laura Chasse, general manager — Cummins North America bus engine business.
The X12 will be available in J4500, D-Series, Commuter Coach, and Inmate Speciality Coaches starting in 2019.
