Cummins Inc. in 2023: Toward Destination Zero. The Massive Energy Transition

How would Cummins Inc., a global leader in internal combustion engines, map out a strategy for the great energy transformation ahead-one that would grow the company while addressing the twin challenges of climate change and the world's insatiable need for power? Cummins Inc., founded in 1919, had become a leading designer, manufacturer, and distributor of internal combustion engines, power generation systems, and related parts and technologies. The case study discusses the strategic thinking behind Cummins' goal of Destination Zero, the company's zero-emissions target for 2050, and the interim steps, partnerships, innovation, and customer education needed to reach that goal. Cummins technology was integral to light-duty trucks, medium-duty trucks, heavy-duty trucks and buses; the company's engines were widely used in industries such as construction, mining, marine, and oil & gas. Major customers included original equipment manufacturers such as Daimler Benz, Navistar, Volvo, Paccar, and Tata. Evolving the Cummins product portfolio would require a series of interim goals, and juggling continual improvements to core engine products while building out zero-emissions solutions.