SANTA ANA, Calif. and COLUMBUS, Ind. – Agility Fuel Systems and Cummins Inc.  have entered into a strategic partnership, the companies announced at the Alternative Clean Transportation Expo in Dallas, Texas.

The companies claim the partnership is intended to improve the natural gas vehicle user experience, and to drive adoption of natural gas as a vehicle fuel for the heavy duty truck and bus markets.

Under the agreement, Cummins will also invest an amount in Agility’s equity.

“Our goal has always been to deliver a diesel-like experience to the end user, making natural gas-powered vehicles as easy to operate and service as diesel vehicles. This partnership with Cummins is a key enabler. By co-developing differentiated and improved natural gas solutions, and utilizing the breadth of Cummins service network, we believe we can accelerate the adoption of natural gas as a fuel for more vehicles, including heavy duty trucks,” said Barry Engle, CEO of Agility.

Roe East, general manager of Cummins On-Highway Natural Gas Business added: “Cummins and Agility are committed to bringing an enhanced experience to customers across North America. We are excited to partner with Agility, and leverage our strengths and expertise to provide even more value to our natural gas customers.”

The partnership is aimed at improving uptime through technology development and the integration of software and hardware between the natural gas engine and the onboard fuel storage and delivery system.

Agility and Cummins will also integrate their sales and aftermarket support and distribution networks, to further enhance the end-user experience.