Global power technology company Cummins has invested £10 million in expanding its battery development operations in Milton Keynes, strengthening its UK research and development capability for commercial vehicle battery technology.
The investment has seen Accelera by Cummins relocate its battery development team into an upgraded research and development facility equipped with new laser welding equipment, enhanced testing capabilities and a wider range of electrochemistry systems. The company said the improvements will support the development of next-generation battery packs for the transport sector.
Cummins said the Milton Keynes site forms part of its wider strategy to develop a range of lower-emission power solutions while building on the engineering expertise already based in the town.
Jon Wood, chief technical officer at Cummins, said: “The Milton Keynes facility plays an important role in advancing innovation in the region, with the team here helping to drive the development of advanced battery technologies for commercial applications.
“This investment reinforces Cummins’ capabilities in the UK and builds on the strong engineering talent in the region. It reflects our commitment to offering customers a diverse portfolio of power solutions, meeting them where they are and investing where customer demand is strongest.”
Brian Wilson, vice president and general manager of eMobility at Accelera by Cummins, said the investment would strengthen the company’s global battery development network while improving the performance, reliability and cost competitiveness of its commercial battery systems.
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle described the investment as “a clear vote of confidence” in the UK economy, saying it supports the government’s ambitions for advanced manufacturing and clean energy.
Emily Darlington, MP for Milton Keynes Central, welcomed the new facility, describing Cummins as an important local employer and saying the investment reinforces Milton Keynes’ position within the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor.
Cummins employs around 5,500 people across 16 UK sites, including approximately 100 highly skilled staff in Milton Keynes. The company said the latest investment underlines its long-term commitment to engineering and battery technology development in the UK.
