Cummins announced its first connectivity-enabled X15 Efficiency series engine and new Endurant HD powertrain for Freightliner Trucks. Freightliner Cascadia buyers can now take advantage of Cummins’ advanced engine computing module, known as Acumen, which comes factory installed and connects to Cummins’ technology platform for direct access to digital apps, over-the-air product enhancements, and future service integrations.
“We’re investing heavily in our technology and we are thrilled to launch our most advanced and connected engine with Freightliner,” said Rob Neitzke, Cummins Engine Business OEM Leader, in the announcement. “The X15 Efficiency series with Acumen allows us to better support Cummins customers over the life of their vehicle. The X15 with Acumen enables us to get ahead of future maintenance and service needs, as well as provide faster access to our Connected Solutions and other digital features as they become available.”
Cummins said the new smart powertrains with Acumen and Endurant HD allow improved fuel economy and drivability through industry-exclusive EX powertrain ratings, now available for Freightliner customers. The powertrain includes features such as On-Ramp Boost (which uses GPS to sense when a truck is entering an on ramp, then temporarily trades fuel economy for maximum torque to reduce the time needed to get to merging speeds) apply predictive services and geographic data for increased fuel economy, reduced trip times, and intuitive performance characteristics.
Engines with Acumen will be able to securely communicate information through cellular connectivity and provide Cummins and Freightliner with a deeper understanding of how vehicles operate in different environments and varying duty cycles. The new insights will be used to enhance machine learning and deliver more customized products and services, with a focus on personalized solutions that increase uptime, reduce total cost of ownership, and optimize engine performance.
Cummins began manufacturing connected power solutions with Acumen in August, starting with the X15 Efficiency series, with plans to expand it into other select engine and power system models in the near future. The Acumen brand will designate Cummins products that include their own connectivity hardware, with both first-fit or aftermarket solutions expected to come to market in most of its key industries.
“The Freightliner Cascadia, paired with Cummins’ Acumen-enabled X15 Efficiency engines, will provide a great experience for customers while boosting their bottom line,” said Ryan Major, product manager, On-Highway Segment, Daimler Trucks North America. “We’re making it easier for customers to start using Cummins’ remote engine monitoring, reporting, calibrating and servicing solutions with first-fit connectivity, while expanding over-the-air programming capabilities to all of our Cascadias.”
