Cummins Inc. announced a new Meritor® RT-160 HE tandem drive axle at Truck World 2026 in Mississauga, Canada. It is made for heavy-duty trucks used on highways.
The new axle is more efficient, giving about 1% better efficiency than the previous RT-160 model, while still handling heavy loads in markets like Mexico and Canada. It is available for 40k and 46k gross axle weight and works for trucks up to 185,000 gross combination weight.
It includes the Meritor Lube Management System (MLMS), which uses the axle’s rotation to manage oil, reduces heat by 15°F, and extends parts life. The system works with low-viscosity oil and supports long service intervals of 500,000 miles.
The rear-rear carrier has a new bearing design, making it 35 lb lighter than before, without losing strength or durability.
According to Coherent Market Insights, the Class 7 Truck Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.0% from 2026 to 2033. Currently, the market is at USD 35.16 Bn in 2026 and is expected to be around USD 46.27 Bn by 2033. The market is seeing a growing focus on sustainability and fuel efficiency, with manufacturers adopting alternative fuel technologies, such as electric and hybrid engines, in Class 7 trucks. Also, the use of connected vehicle technologies and telematics is transforming fleet management, making possible improved route optimization and maintenance scheduling.
Dawn Clegg, Senior Director of Front Axles and Trailer at Cummins, said, “The RT-160 HE is based on a proven Meritor product while leveraging design knowledge for increasing drive axle efficiency.”
Cummins Inc. is a global leader in power solutions. Since 1919, the company has created engines and power systems that move people, goods, and economies.
Cummins has five main areas: Engines, Components, Distribution, Power Systems, and Accelera™ by Cummins. They make diesel, electric, and hybrid engines, power generation systems, key parts like turbochargers, fuel systems, transmissions, axles, brakes, and zero-emission technologies like batteries and electric drivetrains.
Source:
News Room: Cummins Inc.
Company: Cummins Inc.
