TMC, NASHVILLE -- To meet the demands of the emerging alternative fuel markets, Eaton and Cummins Westport now offer an integrated powertrain package featuring the Cummins Westport ISX12 G natural gas engine and the UltraShift Plus automated manual transmission.

The new powertrain package will be available in limited application release for linehaul and regional haul in mid-2014, company officials announced Sunday at the Technology and Maintenance Council's annual meeting.

The Cummins Westport ISX12 G natural gas engine operates on 100% natural gas, which can be carried on the vehicle in either compressed (CNG) or liquefied (LNG) form. The engine is well-suited for regional haul applications, with a robust power band between 1,500-1,800 rpm with peak torque at 1,200 rpm. The ISX 12 G is available with ratings of 320 to 400 horsepower and 1,450 pounds-feet of torque.

The powertrain package benefits include:

• Intelligent shift selection software for performance and efficiency improvements

• Better launch and shift decisions through grade sensing, weight computation and driver throttle commands

• Hill Start Aid, which prevents rollbacks when engaged, reduces risk and simplifies operations for even the most inexperienced drivers

• Tailored shift logic enables efficient operation and enhances braking performance

The Cummins Westport ISX12 G engine can now be paired with either the UltraShift Plus automated transmission or the Eaton Fuller Advantage Series manual transmission.

“We are proud to be able to offer North American fleet customers the first automated transmission to be integrated with a spark-ignited natural gas engine,” said John Beering, senior vice president and general manager, Commercial Vehicle Transmission Business, Eaton.

For more information on the UltraShift Plus, visit eaton.com.

For more information on the ISX 12 G, visit www.cumminswestport.com.