Cummins and Hyliion are joining forces to optimize the Cummins natural gas engine as the generator for the Hypertruck ERX powertrain, an electric range extender semi-truck powertrain solution using onboard power generation to recharge the batteries.

Together the companies plan to obtain key environmental certifications for Cummins’ natural gas internal combustion engines to be used in Hyliion’s Hypertruck ERX powertrain.

The Hyliion Hypertruck ERX offers 75 miles of electric range to qualify for credits under California’s upcoming ZEV mandates and can achieve up to 1,000 miles of full range through the generator, greatly reducing range anxiety, according to the announcement. Cummins’ ISX12N will be optimized with the Hyliion Hypertruck ERX so it can use the existing 700 natural gas stations across North America for refueling. And when fueled with renewable natural gas, it can provide net-negative carbon emissions to commercial fleets.

“We are excited to work with Hyliion to offer this range extender electric and natural gas powertrain in the North America heavy-duty truck market,” said J. Michael Taylor, general manager global powertrain integration for Cummins, in a news release. “Natural gas solutions are an integral part of our journey towards zero emissions. Integrating our engine with the Hyliion Hypertruck ERX solution is key to offering our customers a portfolio of powertrains across many fuel options to meet their sustainability goals.”

Thomas Healy, founder and CEO of Hyliion, said attaining EPA and CARB certifications is a key step on the company’s production path.

Start of production for the Hypertruck ERX with the ISX12N Cummins natural gas power is anticipated to begin in late 2023.