Introduction of Cummins’ B6.7 Octane Engine by Kenworth

Kenworth is set to introduce the B6.7 Octane, Cummins’ inaugural gasoline engine, for its Class 5 to 7 conventional trucks.

Engine Specifications

This medium-duty engine operates on 87-octane gasoline and delivers performance comparable to diesel engines, according to Cummins. The engine offers a horsepower range of 200 to 300 and produces torque of up to 660 foot-pounds.

Compliance with Emission Standards

Both companies have stated that the engine complies with future federal and California emissions standards that will take effect for trucks starting in the 2027 model year. Kenworth made this announcement on March 5 at the NTEA Work Truck Week event in Indianapolis, coinciding with Cummins’ unveiling of the new B7.2 diesel engine at the show.

Key Features of the B6.7 Octane Engine

Cummins highlights several features of the B6.7 Octane engine:

• No requirement for diesel exhaust fluid or active regenerations.
• Simplified maintenance and operation compared to diesel engines.
• Up to 10% greater fuel efficiency compared to other gasoline engines.
• Oil-change intervals extended to 15,000 miles.
• Available fuel-tank sizes ranging from 45 to 80 gallons.

Testing and Development Overview

According to Cummins, the engine has undergone extensive testing, amassing 2 million miles. It is the first engine in the B Series built on the HELM platform, which aims to minimize emissions and improve fuel efficiency while being adaptable for alternative fuels. HELM, which stands for “Higher Efficiency, Lower emissions, and Multiple fuels,” was introduced in 2024 to assist customers in meeting upcoming emissions mandates.

Market Expectations

Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant general manager for sales and marketing, remarked, “The engine was validated against the same standards as Cummins’ diesel B6.7 engine.” With the evolution of environmental regulations, this development prompted us to offer customers additional engine options. The new Cummins B6.7 Octane is expected to comply with stringent emission regulations, making it a sought-after choice in California and any states adopting CARB standards. It will be particularly well-suited for various applications, including pickup and delivery (P&D) and towing, as well as being popular in lease and rental markets and for landscapers accustomed to driving gasoline-powered vehicles.

Engine Availability

The Octane engine will be paired with the PACCAR TX-8 automated transmission and is expected to be available for order later this year, according to Kenworth.