EX Ratings – The Next Level of Cummins Integrated Powertrains
In a world of vertical integration, Cummins is defining what it takes to operate effectively with horizontal integration. From electronic fuel systems to the Signature 600, and with the expansion of complementary and critical engine systems to integrate Cummins VGT™ turbochargers and aftertreatment systems while being supported through Cummins’ proprietary filtration business, Cummins has a proven history of horizontal integration. Over the past 5+ years, Cummins has made even greater efforts to optimize the integration of the engine and transmission to operate more efficiently.
Starting in 2013 with the Cummins and Eaton SmartAdvantage™ Powertrain, the ISX15 and Eaton Advantage® Series Automated manual transmission provided unique shift schedules, gear ratios and electronic features to deliver improved fuel economy without sacrificing overall operator performance. This close collaboration and the future creation of the Eaton Cummins Automated Transmission Technologies joint venture paved the way for the most integrated Cummins systems to date with the X15 Efficiency Series EX ratings.
The 2020 X15 Efficiency Series EX ratings — and looking forward, the 2021 EX ratings — provided unparalleled integration between a Cummins X15, transmission (Endurant HD™) and GPS look-ahead data. By leveraging the communication between the engine and transmission, and the positional and upcoming terrain data, proprietary electronic features were developed to improve overall freight efficiency.
Today, four unique features that are exclusive to X15 and X12 EX ratings exist to provide increased drivability and fuel economy, with more retroactive features to be made available in the future. The four features available today are:
- On-Ramp Boost
- Predictive Gear Shifting
- Predictive Engine Braking
- Dynamic Power
On-Ramp Boost: Uses GPS signal data to identify an on-ramp on an upcoming interstate and allows improved acceleration for entry. Acceleration is increased by temporarily disabling torque limiting features of the engine and provides a performance-oriented shift schedule.
Predictive Gear Shifting: Improves vehicle speed tracking by selecting the optimum gear and advancing shift times during Cruise Control. Predictive Gear Shifting reduces vehicle speed losses while negotiating hilly terrain. When using Cruise Control, Predictive Gear Shifting utilizes look-ahead data to calculate whether the vehicle can maintain the desired gear when climbing an upcoming grade. If a shift would be needed, the engine and transmission will shift prior to the grade and provide additional power to maintain speeds and gear selection.
Predictive Engine Braking: Utilizes look-ahead data to calculate the braking demand for a future grade and the target vehicle speed. If needed, the transmission down-shifts to provide more braking horsepower and help the vehicle stay within the desired road speed ranges.
Dynamic Power: Adjusts the level of torque provided based on the vehicle operating conditions. If full torque is not required to maintain vehicle speeds, torque is reduced, providing improved fuel economy.
The following video provides further information on the exclusive electronic features available with EX ratings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzYZmHgiqeo
For more information on additional electronic features available for Cummins on-highway engines, visit https://www.powerspecweb.cummins.com
You can have it all with the 2021 X12 and 2021 X15 powertrain lineup from Cummins. With a focus of uptime, total cost of ownership and ease of operations, the Cummins heavy-duty platforms bring you the best 15-liter and 12-liter engines yet. Starting with the most reliable 15-liter ever produced, to offering EX ratings for enhanced driver performance, the X15 and X12 give you the confidence needed to improve your business without sacrificing anything.
