Cummins, Komatsu working on alcohol-powered mining truck

The new fuel test cell that runs on ethanol is expected to help reduce emissions for Komatsu haul trucks by up to 70%.

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June 16, 2025

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Cummins has successfully commissioned a new alcohol fuel test cell for its project with Vale and Komatsu to develop an ethanol/diesel-powered surface mining haul truck. The program is working to retrofit existing diesel engines in Komatsu haul trucks to operate on both ethanol and diesel, with the 230-290-ton trucks able to use up to 70% ethanol and lower their emissions footprint by up to 70%, the companies said.

“Ethanol/methanol diesel dual fuel systems offer significant benefits to the mining industry, including the realization of up to ~70% decarbonization – lowering harmful emissions such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter – while continuing to meet comparable productivity and performance requirements,” said Luke Mosier, Cummins Innovation Program leader. “More than that, miners who utilize alternative fuels can utilize their existing infrastructure and leverage their current fleet, facilities and personnel.”

Cummins is producing the low-carbon fuel test cells at its Seymour, Indiana Engine Plant. The fuel test cells can accommodate a range of high-horsepower engines from 38L to 95L fuel capacity, and the program’s QSK60 Engine will be undergoing testing until 2026 before field tests begin at Komatsu’s facilities.