Jennifer Rumsey, chairwoman and CEO of Cummins, emphasized the importance of embracing imperfection in the pursuit of a sustainable transportation future.
Uncertainty Ahead
In a time of uncertainty, Rumsey cited advanced diesel, biodiesel, natural gas, and hydrogen engines, as well as battery-electric, fuel-cell-electric, and hybrid solutions, highlighting the need for a diverse range of power sources.
- Advanced diesel
- Biodiesel
- Natural gas
- Hydrogen engines
- Battery-electric
- Fuel-cell-electric
- Hybrid solutions
These solutions will be crucial in moving the industry forward, Rumsey stated, as “no single solution will meet our broader goals.”
The Importance of Regulations
Rumsey stressed the need for regulations that consider the lifecycle emissions of a fuel or technology. She urged industry members to work together to find the best solution for business and application needs.
“We need to be agile and advocate for what’s necessary so we can invest in advancing a range of solutions that will power a more efficient and sustainable future,” she said.
Investing in Innovation
The Cummins boss noted that billions of dollars are being spent on innovation, and companies are continuing to invest in cleaner, advanced, and more efficient technologies.
- Over the past 25 years, nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions from diesel products have been slashed 98% in the U.S. and 90% globally.
- The industry has faced and survived significant challenges, including recessions, the Covid pandemic, and unprecedented supply chain disruptions.
- Regulations that force the adoption of certain technologies may exclude some of the best solutions.
Clear Goals and Incremental Improvements
Rumsey emphasized the need for clear, challenging but achievable goals that drive innovation and allow the best technologies to compete. She also highlighted the importance of incremental improvements to diesel engines, while advancing low-carbon alternative fuels. Key Takeaways
* Clear goals and regulations can drive innovation and help the industry meet its sustainability goals. * Incremental improvements to diesel engines can provide significant greenhouse gas emission savings opportunities in the near term. * Hybrid technology can help drive scale and reduce costs for batteries.
The Role of Hybrid Technology
Rumsey praised hybrid technology, saying it is an important alternative that offers a balanced and pragmatic solution for trucking. Hybrids address the challenges of range and improve fuel efficiency and emissions, while bridging the gap between traditional combustion engines and full electrification.
| Advanced Diesel | 98% reduction in U.S. and 90% globally |
| Hybrid Technology | Significant greenhouse gas emission savings opportunities |
A Sustainable Future
Rumsey concluded that a sustainable transportation future requires a diverse range of power sources, clear goals, and incremental improvements to diesel engines, as well as the advancement of low-carbon alternative fuels. She emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation to achieve this goal.
As the industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that a sustainable transportation future is within reach.
