METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Cummins unveils enhanced heavy duty engine

The compact ISX12 will deliver better pulling power, driveability and strong clutch engagement torque. Full suites of horsepower and torque ratings are available for motorcoaches, fire and emergency vehicles, and recreational vehicles.

January 23, 2012
Cummins unveils enhanced heavy duty engine

 

2 min to read


Cummins Inc. unveiled plans for its ISX12 heavy-duty engine with significant fuel economy improvements for regional haul, vocational and specialty applications. The ISX12 leverages the strength and performance of its predecessor, the ISX11.9, to deliver fuel economy improvements of up to 5% in regional haul applications and by as much as 12% in vocational applications.

The ISX12 is a step above the previous model in this power range and realizes improved product characteristics through optimized calibrations.

The compact ISX12 will deliver improved fuel economy, reliability and proven performance across the broad range of applications for which it is ideally suited. Featuring better pulling power, driveability and strong clutch engagement torque, the ISX12 is designed to work in rigorous duty cycles, including those for work trucks such as dump and mixer trucks, and refuse applications. Additionally, full suites of horsepower and torque ratings are available for fire and emergency vehicles, recreational vehicles and motorcoaches as well as regional haul and day cab operations in Class 8 trucks.

Cummins ISX12 utilizes common components with the industry-leading big-bore engine, the Cummins ISX15, including an enhanced cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation system, a single VGT(TM) Turbocharger and the proprietary XPI fuel system. Like the complete lineup of on-highway heavy-duty and mid-range engines, the ISX12 utilizes Cummins Aftertreatment System with selective catalytic reduction technology.

The ISX12 has a full power range ideally suited to meet the needs of regional hauling and LTL distribution operations, with standard ratings ranging from 310 hp to 425 hp (231-317 kW) and SmartTorque ratings ranging from 330 hp to 425 hp (246-317 kW). SmartTorque ratings unleash higher torque in the two top gears so that drivers can climb steep hills with fewer downshifts. For vocational applications, the ISX12 is an exceptional choice, with a high power-to-weight ratio and 800 lb.-ft. (1085 N•m) of clutch engagement torque. Eight vocational and five refuse ratings are available, along with integrated Rear Engine Power Take-Off, Front Engine Power Take-Off and a choice of hydraulic drive options.

The ISX12 will be in full production in March 2012.

More Motorcoach

Group announcing BUSES Act
Motorcoachby StaffJune 16, 2026

Bipartisan BUSES Act Seeks Changes to New York City's Bus Idling Enforcement Program

Backed by motorcoach operators, the legislation seeks to balance emissions goals with passenger safety by allowing limited idling for inspections, accessibility needs and extreme weather conditions.

Read More →
Driving Change Through Technology
Technologyby Alex RomanJune 12, 2026

METROspectives: CharterUP CEO Armir Harris on Modernizing Mobility

From digital transformation to evolving customer demands, CharterUP's CEO Armir Harris offers his perspective on the transportation industry's next chapter.

Read More →
A maintenance person with a tablet.
ManagementJune 5, 2026

Reinventing Fleet Maintenance with Real-time Visibility and AI

Transit leaders need to know what needs fixing, where to look, who is responsible, when work is completed, and what it costs without having to chase information across disconnected systems.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
ABA testifies for federal bus regulations

ABA's Ferguson Testifies in Support of BUSES Act, National Standards for Bus Operators

The BUSES Act would create a nationwide framework preventing state and local governments from enforcing bus idling restrictions of less than 15 minutes, a threshold consistent with existing Environmental Protection Agency guidance.

Read More →
frontrunner bus image
SponsoredJune 1, 2026

Low-Floor vs. High-Floor Cutaway vs. Modified Van: How 3 Accessible Minibus Designs Compare

As transit demands evolve, so should your fleet. Download the whitepaper to see how the Low-Floor Frontrunner Minibus compares to traditional options.

Read More →
thumbnail for 2026 METRO Buyer’s Guide & Directory
SponsoredMay 27, 2026

2026 METRO Buyer’s Guide & Directory

Searching for the right vehicles, technology, equipment, or services for your public transit or motorcoach operation? This industry guide brings together manufacturers and suppliers from across the transportation market — all in one place. Download it to connect with the companies that help agencies and operators improve mobility, enhance operations, and move their organizations forward.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
The cover of the ABAF's Motorcoach Census 2025
Motorcoachby StaffMay 20, 2026

ABA Foundation’s 2025 Motorcoach Census Highlights Industry Growth, 77K Jobs

Conducted annually by Tourism Economics, the study found that 1,769 companies operating 49,543 motorcoaches are based in the US, while 122 companies operating 1,425 motorcoaches are located in Canada.

Read More →
Bus manufacturing image from ENC
Busby Staff and News ReportsMay 18, 2026

ENC Lands Additional 10-Bus Order From Academy Bus

The latest purchase brings Academy Bus’ AXESS fleet orders to 35 vehicles as ENC continues expanding its heavy-duty transit lineup.

Read More →
Gavel and measures of justice.

American Bus Association Files Lawsuit Against NYC Over Bus Idling Rules

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, challenges the City’s use of its Citizens Air Complaint program.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Maintenance officials examining a vehicle on a lift.
Managementby Alex RomanMay 8, 2026

Avoiding Mid-Season Breakdowns: A Fleet Readiness Q&A

John Hatman, COO of Master’s Transportation, breaks down the priorities, warning signs and common mistakes fleet managers should address now to stay ahead of summer demand.

Read More →