Cummins Announces Optimized Gearing Recommendations and Connected Diagnostics

Cummins Inc. has announced two new benefits for operators of its ISL9 and ISX12 diesel engines at the United Motorcoach Association Expo. The ISL9 is available from 330 hp to 380 hp, and the ISX12 is available from 385 hp to 500 hp. Both are on display in Booth 706.

As part of the company's SmartEfficiency initiative, optimized gearing recommendations have been developed to deliver fuel-economy improvements in motorcoach applications. Kartik Ramanan, general manager - Cummins Global Bus Engine Business, said, "Cummins SmartEfficiency aligns with the industry focus on reducing greenhouse gas and CO2 emissions. It encompasses a range of solutions that will improve fuel efficiency and reduce total cost of operation. We are working even more closely with customers to understand their business and optimize our products for their specific applications and duty cycles. We will adopt the most appropriate solutions to deliver the best possible results."

The new gearing recommendations leverage the characteristic excellent low-end torque of Cummins engines, coupled with their favorable power-to-weight ratio, enabling additional downspeeding. Lowering target engine speeds at cruise, or downspeeding, allows the engine to operate consistently at lower revs, reducing engine friction and overall parasitic losses. The rule of thumb is that for every 100 rpm reduced, an approximate 1 percent fuel-economy improvement can be seen.

Laura Chasse, general manager - North America Bus Engine Business, said, "Both the ISL9 and ISX12 already deliver excellent levels of fuel economy, and new gearing recommendations add a further benefit to our customers. They can contact their local Cummins consultant for advice on which gearing is best aligned to their operational objectives."

The second new benefit for Cummins motorcoach engine customers is the availability of Connected Diagnostics, a system that gives real-time monitoring and service recommendations to provide the best balance of vehicle availability and engine protection. In response to engine fault information, Connected Diagnostics, through an existing telematics connection, gathers engine data to provide customers with expert recommendations. It utilizes Cummins know-how to enable customers to make the most informed decision at the time.

"Customers can make educated decisions on their motorcoaches in operation and when it is appropriate to perform any repair work. We see this as an important tool to maintain vehicle productivity and maximize uptime," added Chasse.