Cummins will unveil its new HELM platform at the 2025 Brisbane Truck Show, presenting what the company calls a significant breakthrough in decarbonising on-highway transport through a flexible, fuel-agnostic internal combustion engine architecture designed to operate on a range of low- and zero-carbon fuels.
According to Cummins, the HELM platform allows for the development of single engine platforms tailored for specific fuels – diesel, natural gas, or hydrogen – while maintaining common parts across the range.
The shared core architecture is intended to reduce complexity for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), simplify maintenance for fleet operators, and enable smoother integration into existing systems.
Sean McLean, director and General Manager of On-Highway Business for Cummins Asia Pacific, said the new platform aims to meet customers’ decarbonisation goals without requiring significant changes to operations.
“The HELM platform enables us to meet the needs of our customers, without compromise,” McLean said.
Cummins emphasised the modular nature of the platform, noting that while each engine is optimised for a specific fuel, the use of common components across the product line enables greater serviceability and lowers training and tooling costs for technicians.
“The common platforms deliver fuel flexibility, reduce emissions, and support operational familiarity for fleets and technicians,” McLean added.
Among the engine variants on display will be the X15N, Cummins’ first natural gas engine designed specifically for the heavy-duty sector.
Now in full production in North America, the X15N is said to deliver near-zero nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and reduced greenhouse gases.
The hydrogen-powered X15H is also under development, with production expected within the next decade.
The diesel variant within the HELM platform promises improved fuel efficiency, reduced weight, and higher power density, while retaining compatibility with renewable alternatives such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).
Cummins said HVO – commonly known as renewable diesel – can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90 percent compared to traditional diesel, while remaining compatible with many existing engines.
“Cummins is taking a practical approach to energy transition,” McLean said. “HELM gives customers the flexibility to choose the fuel that aligns with their sustainability goals, business needs, and infrastructure realities.”
Cummins’ investment in the HELM platform reflects its broader commitment to delivering technologies that support cleaner, more adaptable operations in real-world applications.
The company will be located at stand 94 at the Brisbane Truck Show, which will take place from 15 to 18 May 2025, at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
