Cummins marks 60 years powering Darlington

A North East engineering hub is celebrating six decades of manufacturing excellence and global impact.

Cummins is marking the 60th anniversary of its Darlington facility, which has been developing engines and power technologies since opening in July 1965. 

The Grade II-listed site now serves over 180 customers across sectors including commercial vehicles, buses, farming, construction, marine and power generation, with products exported to more than 50 countries.

Recognised as one of the UK’s leading power solutions facilities, the Darlington site is at the forefront of future-ready manufacturing. 

Recent investments include a £13 million Powertrain Test Facility, one of Europe’s most advanced, offering robotic driving, transmission testing, load simulation and engine duty cycle recreation to support low and zero emission power solutions, including hydrogen combustion engines.

Cummins’ work in Darlington has also received recognition from the Government and has received royal approval.

It has received Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) funding for the development of hydrogen technologies, hosted site visits with Rachel Reeves MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, and received the Terra Carta Seal from His Royal Highness King Charles for its commitment to sustainability and people-centred innovation.

The Darlington site employs more than 1750 people and supports 250 apprenticeships across the UK, covering STEM roles and office-based positions. 

Steve Morley, plant manager at Cummins Darlington, said: “It’s fantastic to celebrate the heritage of Cummins in Darlington. 

“We take great pride in what has been achieved over the last 60 years and the global impact we continue to make from this site every day. 

“As with all large employers, we wouldn’t be celebrating any milestones without our people, so we say a big thank you to everyone who has contributed to the collective success of the business.

“Whilst it’s important to take stock of our past achievements, we’re very much focused on continuing to innovate and lead the future of manufacturing power solutions. 

“No matter what the technology, we’re committed to providing the right power solutions that can continue to power industries we depend on as a society for many more years to come.”

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