Cummins has introduced a new turbocharger designed specifically for hydrogen combustion engines, aiming to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. The CCS H2 ICE turbo compensates for hydrogen’s lower energy density by increasing airflow, helping engines deliver better performance while keeping nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in check. This innovation aligns with Cummins’ broader push into hydrogen-powered transport, despite the company’s recent $1.7 billion emissions-related settlement for diesel engines.
A key feature of the CCS H2 ICE is its variable-geometry design, which allows adjustable nozzles to optimize airflow on demand. This reduces turbo lag—a common issue in combustion engines—ensuring quicker power delivery. Hydrogen combustion engines operate with a high-airflow lean burn to minimize NOx emissions, making precise turbocharger control essential for performance and environmental benefits.
Cummins has increasingly prioritized hydrogen combustion over battery-electric solutions, demonstrating its technology in a Peterbilt semi-truck prototype in 2023. While the new turbocharger is initially focused on European fleet applications, it could also see use in U.S. trucks, provided the necessary fueling infrastructure expands.
Other major players, including Bosch and Toyota, are also investing in hydrogen combustion alongside fuel cells, viewing both technologies as viable alternatives for commercial and heavy-duty vehicles. As the industry explores cleaner propulsion systems, innovations like Cummins’ hydrogen turbocharger could play a crucial role in making hydrogen combustion engines more efficient and competitive.
