Cummins' first gas-powered engine has diesel-like performance

For a long time, the Cummins brand has been associated with heavy-duty diesel engines that power pickup trucks, large commercial vehicles, and even ships. But as emissions standards continue to get tighter, it was time for Cummins to think outside the box.

And thus, they finally came up with their very first gasoline-powered engine called the B6.7 Octane. Purpose-built for medium-duty commercial vehicles, Cummins says the new engine provides the power, durability, and performance of diesel with the simplicity of gasoline.

From a numbers standpoint, the figures are indeed quite impressive for a gas-powered engine. The B6.7 Octane’s inline-six platform delivers 300 horsepower and 894 Nm of torque, with lower output versions putting out 200 horsepower and 813 Nm. While the diesel counterparts can generate torque at lower RPMs, the B6.7 Octane peaks at an early 1,600 to 1,800 rpm.

Likewise, the Cummins gas engine only requires an 87-octane diet to generate that power. As such, the rigs can readily fill up their tanks in most filling stations. When it comes to emissions standards, the engine is compliant with the 2027 regulations of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the EPA.

For now, Cummins is yet to announce which medium-duty trucks are receiving the B6.7 Octane engine. This goes to show, however, that internal combustion engines still have plenty of room for development.