Cummins promotes engine replacement service at Eurobus 2024
As public transport operators grapple with rising fuel costs and environmental regulations, the decision to replace or renew entire bus fleets becomes increasingly complex.
A compelling alternative, however, lies in the strategic replacement of bus engines. This approach offers a host of benefits, including significant cost savings, reduced environmental impact and enhanced operational efficiency.
And when that replacement option is a Euro Stage VI Cummins engine, there’s the added attraction of a factory-backed warranty of up to five years as standard, a uniquely powerful proposition for UK bus operators.
Cummins is the world’s leading engine platform for city bus applications. At Eurobus 2024, the brand will be promoting its turnkey like-for-like engine replacement service that can be incorporated into a service agreement.
Such agreements give bus operators a firmer grip on budgeting and operational planning. They are in place with a number of big city bus operators across Europe, including Transport UK London Bus, which operates a 560-strong fleet of Cummins-powered Alexander Dennis buses, and with Arriva London.
“Replacing a faithful old Cummins engine with a factory-fresh unit improves fleet performance and uptime and lowers service and maintenance costs,” said Jake Harling, General Manager – Aftermarket Sales – UK & Ireland.
“We maintain good stocks of complete Euro V and Euro VI B4.5 and B6.7 engines which have been built at our Darlington factory, and the replacement of the engine is handled from start to finish by a Cummins team of service experts.
“Our focus is on minimising downtime and achieving the lowest total cost of ownership for our customers. In this ambition, we’re helped by having industry-leading technology, the finest technical support and the best warranty in the business.”
By carefully considering the ownership costs equation and the long-term benefits, public transport operators can unlock the potential of engine replacement as a strategic tool for fleet renewal.
This approach not only delivers substantial cost savings but also contributes to a more sustainable and efficient transportation system.
“At Cummins, we invest as much in our service and parts capability as we do our engine technology to ensure maximum reliability and the highest possible uptime for our customers’ bus fleets,” said Harling.
The case for replacement
Replacing engines requires a fraction of the initial investment compared to purchasing entirely new buses. This allows operators to allocate funds to other critical areas of their business.
Modern, efficient engines can breathe new life into older bus chassis, extending their service life and maximising return on investment. They also often incorporate advanced technologies that reduce maintenance requirements, leading to long-term cost savings.
“By adopting modern engine technology, operators can ensure compliance with increasingly stringent emissions standards, avoiding costly penalties and improving the air quality in urban areas,” said Jake Harling.
“On the operational side, new engines can deliver superior performance, resulting in increased power, better fuel economy and smoother operation.”
Engine replacement offers the flexibility to upgrade specific vehicles within a fleet, tailoring the approach to individual needs and budget constraints. This can all be discussed as part of the service agreement.
The gift of longer life
Cummins experienced aftermarket and engineering teams are on hand to deliver a complete and comprehensive replacement package that maximises the lifecycle of a bus fleet.
- Latest Cummins performance specifications for improved performance and fuel economy
- 100% Genuine Cummins parts used for highest quality and durability
- Every engine tested before shipping
- Low cost or no-cost updates for newer Cummins engine technology
- Up to five years extended coverage
- Supported by the Cummins global service network.
Bus engine replacement: Look for the signs
While regular maintenance can extend their lifespan, there will come a time when a replacement bus engine is necessary.
These are some tell-tale signs that may indicate a bus engine is nearing the end of its life:
- Bus takes longer to reach cruising speed or struggles to maintain it on inclines
- Bus can't reach its usual maximum speed
- Engine lacks the responsiveness it once had
- Knocking or pinging noise, indicating premature ignition of the fuel-air mixture (known as detonation)
- Rattling or clanking sound, indicating piston rings or other internal engine components may have worn out
- Grinding or squealing, indicating damaged bearings or other moving parts
- Blue, white or black smoke are signs, respectively, of worn piston rings, a blown head gasket or other coolant-related issues, or that the engine is running with too much fuel and not enough air
- Topping up the oil more often than usual tells you there may be internal leaks or worn components
- A rising temperature gauge could mean a faulty thermostat, clogged radiator, or a failing water pump
If you notice any of these signs, it's important to have your bus inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and repair can help prevent more serious problems and costly repairs down the road.
While bus engines are built to last, they will eventually need to be replaced. By being aware of the signs of engine trouble and addressing them promptly, you can help ensure your bus remains reliable and safe.
At the heart of Europe’s bus industry
From compact midi-buses all the way up to three-axle double-deckers, Cummins is the pre-eminent supplier of engines for applications in Europe and Turkiye.
Cummins engines are certified to the very low emission requirements of the 2019 Euro VI Phase-D standard, introducing nearer-to-zero diesel and natural gas power.
No other engines power more buses, in more cities, and in more countries worldwide than Cummins – and that’s because no other engine range can offer such high levels of performance and in-service reliability while operating under the most challenging duty cycles.
The ability to keep delivering under long service hours, very high annual mileages and difficult route terrain comes as standard with every Cummins engine.
Innovations such as the Stop/Start system and hybrid configurations have set Cummins technology apart from its competitors.