Cummins, Isuzu Look At “Partnership Opportunities”

Cummins Inc. and Isuzu Motors Limited have signed a letter of intent to jointly evaluate opportunities to deliver globally competitive products.

In the commercial vehicle space, power sources are increasingly becoming more diverse and emissions regulations continue to grow more stringent around the world, Cummins said. Significant investment will be required to deliver the best next generation diesel and natural gas powertrain solutions, as well as alternative powertrains, connectivity and autonomy. Collaboration and strategic partnerships will be essential to share increased investment costs and win in the market, Cummins said.

“Isuzu is a leading global company with a reputation for excellence in trucks, powertrains and customer service,” said Tom Linebarger, Cummins chairman and CEO. “Our companies share a commitment to technology leadership, quality and dependability for our customers, and global reach.

“We also share common values in the way we do business and how we treat our people, our customers, and our partners. Cummins is honored to be working with Isuzu and to explore how to leverage our respective strengths to create new opportunities for both companies.”

Each company has committed to assign a team of individuals over the next few months to explore potential opportunities in product technology development, service and other areas of collaboration with the potential for a longer-term partnership for the next generation of diesel and natural gas engine-based powertrains as well as new powertrain technologies such as electrification.

Isuzu Motors Limited President and Representative Director Masanori Katayama said that Isuzu and Cummins share common challenges concerning future powertrains and that “Isuzu will form suitable partnerships in each technical area for our business growth outlined in the Isuzu midterm business plan to support people’s life and social production activities” surrounding commercial vehicles, light commercial vehicles and powertrains.