Cummins Inc. has secured $75 million in Department of Energy funding to convert more than 350,000 square feet of Columbus, Ind. engine plant space for zero-emissions components and electric powertrain systems. The Inflation Reduction Act-rooted grant is the largest to date from Washington, D.C. awarded solely to the company. Cummins will match it for a total $150 million investment to expand production of battery packs, powertrain systems and other battery-electric vehicle (BEV) components for Accelera, the zero-emissions business segment. To support the additional manufacturing capacity, Cummins anticipates adding approximately 250 full-time jobs, with opportunities for the existing workforce to transition to many of the new positions over time.
“This is another step forward in the progress we are making toward a zero-emissions future and expanding battery manufacturing in the United States, strengthening our global position in electrified solutions for commercial markets,” says Accelera by Cummins President Amy Davis. “Partnership with government, customers, and the industry as a whole is required to accelerate the shift to zero emissions.”
“By expanding the production of batteries and electric vehicle components at the same plant where we manufacture blocks and heads for our current and next-generation, engine-based solutions, we continue to prove our commitment to Destination Zero and dedication to innovation, strengthening the communities we serve and environmental stewardship,” adds Cummins Chair Jennifer Rumsey.
Upon project completion, the Columbus Engine Plant will house approximately 350 employees focused on BEV-related work. Nearly half of the 1.42-million-sq.-ft. facility, which opened in 1926, will be dedicated to zero-emissions manufacturing. The electric powertrains produced at the operation will result in reduction of approximately 104 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions by 2030.