Daimler Adds Cummins Engines to 2027 Powertrain Lineup

Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) is expanding its 2027 powertrain portfolio. The OEM is adding several new Cummins engine options alongside Detroit’s next-generation diesel platform across Freightliner and Western Star models.

The move broadens the range of engines available to fleets as the industry prepares for the Environmental Protection Agency’s 2027 emissions regulations.

The expanded lineup includes Cummins’ new B6.7 Octane gasoline engine, the clean-sheet X10 platform and a redesigned X15, complementing Detroit’s Gen 6 diesel engines.

“Cummins is a critical partner for DTNA, and integrating their engines ensures our portfolio covers the full spectrum of applications for our customers,” said Joanna Buttler, general manager of Product Strategy and Market Development for DTNA. “Their next generation of engines strengthen the range of powertrain solutions available across Freightliner and Western Star, and support customers as they prepare for upcoming emissions requirements and long-term operational needs.”

Cummins Introduces Gasoline Option for Medium-Duty Trucks

The new Cummins B6.7 Octane engine brings a purpose-built gasoline option to the medium-duty segment and will be available in the Freightliner M2 106.

Designed specifically for commercial applications, the engine produces up to 300 horsepower and 660 lb.-ft. of torque while running on widely available 87-octane gasoline.

Cummins said the engine aims to deliver diesel-like performance while offering the simplicity associated with gasoline powertrains.

Built on Cummins’ HELM platform architecture, the engine uses a common base that supports multiple combustion systems. The design allows the B6.7 Octane to deliver strong torque response for demanding duty cycles, including operations in hilly terrain and cold environments.

The Cummins “HELM” engine platform acronym stands for “Higher-Efficiency, Lower-Emissions, Multiple Fuels.”

The B6.7 engine also features a simplified emissions system using a three-way catalyst that eliminates diesel exhaust fluid, active regenerations and diesel aftertreatment hardware. Cummins said fuel efficiency can be up to 10% better than comparable gasoline engines, while oil service intervals can extend to 15,000 miles.

“The B6.7 Octane provides fleets a commercial-grade gasoline solution built for tough duty cycles without increasing maintenance demands,” said Jim Nebergall, executive director of Product and Market Strategy at Cummins. “By combining diesel-like durability with gasoline simplicity, the B6.7 Octane offers customers dependable performance in a footprint they already trust.”

Ordering for the engine opens the week of March 9, 2026, with production scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2026.

New Cummins Platforms Target Medium- and Heavy-Duty Applications

DTNA’s expanded lineup will also include the new Cummins X10 and a redesigned X15 engine for 2027 model-year trucks.

The X10 is a clean-sheet design intended to replace both the Cummins L9 and X12 engines. It delivers up to 380 horsepower for medium-duty applications and up to 450 horsepower in heavy-duty configurations. The engine incorporates a 48-volt electrical system designed to quickly heat emissions-control components during cold starts, helping reduce emissions and support compliance with EPA 2027 standards.

Cummins’ redesigned X15 will continue as a cornerstone engine for heavy-duty applications, updated to meet the upcoming emissions requirements while maintaining the durability and performance that have made it widely used in long-haul operations.

In addition to the new platforms, several existing Cummins engines will continue in the lineup, including the B6.7 diesel, the L9N natural gas engine and the X15N natural gas engine for heavy-duty and long-haul applications.

Together, the options provide fleets with multiple fuel and powertrain pathways depending on operational requirements, emissions strategies and long-term fleet planning.

Detroit Gen 6 Engines Anchor DTNA Diesel Strategy

Alongside the Cummins offerings, DTNA will continue to deploy its Detroit Gen 6 diesel engine platform, which includes the DD13, DD15 and DD16.

The Gen 6 engines build on a platform with more than 1.2 million units already in service and incorporate a series of design updates aimed at improving efficiency while meeting the more stringent 2027 emissions requirements.

Key changes include a redesigned fuel system that removes amplified injection while delivering stronger and more consistent fuel flow. An asymmetric intake port increases swirl and improves fuel and air mixing, while Miller timing on the camshaft reduces compression work and improves overall efficiency.

To meet stricter nitrogen oxide limits under the EPA’s 2027 rules, the Gen 6 engines will incorporate a pre-Selective Catalytic Reduction system placed upstream of the main aftertreatment system. Combined with a thermal control valve, the design allows the aftertreatment system to reach operating temperature more quickly, reducing the need for parked regenerations.

DTNA said the new aftertreatment system preserves existing chassis space and does not affect back-of-cab packaging, an important consideration for vocational applications and truck equipment manufacturers.

Production of the Detroit Gen 6 DD13 and DD15 engines is scheduled to begin in January 2027, followed by the DD16 in January 2028.

By combining Cummins engines with its Detroit platform, DTNA said it aims to provide fleets with a multi-fuel, multi-platform strategy that supports a wide range of operational needs across gasoline, diesel and natural gas powertrains.