Cummins Secures $2.1 Million Grant to Advance Hybrid Haul Truck Technology
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Cummins was selected for a $2.1 million grant from the Centralia Coal Transition Grants Energy Technology board to support the continued development and testing of hybrid haul truck systems at the Proving Grounds – Centralia (PGC) in Washington State.
The funding, which will support activities through 2027 — including technology development and validation, training, documentation, and customer engagement — will accelerate Cummins’ efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the global mining industry through its subsidiary, First Mode.
Cummins acquired First Mode assets in February 2025, continuing its mission to decarbonize heavy industry. Since 2022, First Mode has operated at the TransAlta Centralia Coal Mine, transforming the site into a hub for clean energy innovation.
The newly awarded grant will fund critical testing, training, documentation, and customer engagement activities at PGC over the next two years, supporting both trial and limited production releases of hybrid haul truck systems.
“Cummins is proud to continue our mission of delivering impactful, sustainable solutions to the mining industry. This grant enables us to accelerate product development and showcase Centralia as a global center for clean technology innovation,” said Molly Puga, general manager of First Mode.
The hybrid system developed by First Mode captures energy from braking events and redeploys it to reduce diesel consumption and enhance truck productivity. With potential fuel savings of up to 30 percent, the technology presents a compelling business case for mine operators aiming to lower emissions without sacrificing performance.
In addition to advancing product development, the grant will support training programs for mine site personnel and regional maintainers, development of installation and maintenance manuals, and customer demonstrations — all designed to build trust and ensure safe, effective deployment of the hybrid systems worldwide.
“This investment not only supports environmental goals but also strengthens the local economy. Cummins’ commitment to community engagement and workforce development in Centralia aligns perfectly with our vision for a sustainable future,” said Mickey Dreher, Centralia Coal Transition Grants board member.
Cummins plans to deliver up to five trial units and approximately 30 limited production units as part of this initiative, with a full production release targeted for late 2027. The company is also exploring opportunities to expand hybrid technology into other heavy industries, including freight rail.
Cummins is a global power solutions leader, is comprised of five business segments — engine, components, distribution, power systems, and accelera by Cummins — supported by its global manufacturing and extensive service and support network, skilled workforce and vast technological expertise. Cummins is committed to its Destination Zero strategy, which is grounded in the company’s commitment to sustainability and helping its customers successfully navigate the energy transition with its broad portfolio of products. The products range from advanced diesel, natural gas, electric and hybrid powertrains and powertrain-related components including aftertreatment, turbochargers, fuel systems, valvetrain technologies, controls systems, air handling systems, automated transmissions, axles, drivelines, brakes, suspension systems, electric power generation systems, electrified power systems with innovative components and subsystems, including battery, fuel cell and electric power technologies and hydrogen production technologies. Headquartered in Columbus, Indiana since its founding in 1919, Cummins employs approximately 69,600 people committed to powering a more prosperous world through three global corporate responsibility priorities critical to healthy communities: education, environment, and equality of opportunity.
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