Cummins Inc. has recently unveiled its new Pilot Installation Centre at the Marktheidenfeld site in Germany, further fortifying its commitment to advancing vehicle and machinery in-use emissions compliance testing. This strategic initiative, backed by a $1.7 million (€1.59 million) investment, marks a significant expansion of the Cummins Emission Solutions facility, contributing to the company’s European customer support and vehicle testing capabilities.
The Pilot Installation Centre is poised to play a pivotal role in the product development of Cummins’ renowned internal combustion engine technology. It will focus on refining advanced diesel engines and aftertreatment systems that adhere to the latest emissions requirements. This expansion encompasses a 500m2 extension, accommodating Cummins’ portable emissions measurement system (PEMS) testing, field trial support, and re-power capabilities.
Helen Carr, the Pilot Centre Group Leader at Cummins, expressed enthusiasm about the new centre, emphasizing its pivotal role in meeting the growing demand for in-use emissions testing as the industry progresses towards future emissions standards. The investment not only delivers an expanded service to Cummins’ customers but also supports the existing Technical Operations functions in Europe.
As part of the Euro VI and Stage V regulations, Cummins is mandated to conduct in-use emissions testing to ensure its products consistently meet regulated emissions levels during real-world operations. The specialized PEMS equipment employed in these tests measures emissions as vehicles operate on approved routes or predefined duty cycles.
The Marktheidenfeld location of the Pilot Installation Centre strategically places Cummins near legislator-approved test sites, proving grounds, and road routes. This geographical advantage optimizes the efficacy of emissions testing, ensuring accuracy and compliance. The centre is expected to serve as a hub for Cummins’ European Technical Organisation, complementing the well-established Darlington, UK, Pilot Installation Centre that has been operational for over two decades.
The official opening ceremony of the Pilot Centre took place on November 16th, 2023, and featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Sabine Sitter, Head of Main-Spessart County, Thomas Stamm, Mayor of Marktheidenfeld, and Cummins leadership. Sabine Sitter, the Head of Main-Spessart County, acknowledged Cummins as a key contributor to the local economy and expressed optimism for the new chapter added with the inauguration of the Pilot Centre.
