Andrew McDougall Named 2024 Louis Schwitzer Award Winner

Rhea-AI Summary

Andrew McDougall has been named the 2024 Louis Schwitzer Award winner for his Xtrac Electric Servo Actuator (ESA) at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. His innovative gear change system for sequential shift transmissions boasts benefits like faster shifts, reduced weight, and enhanced efficiency. Cummins (NYSE: CMI) and Valvoline Global Operations, sponsors of the award, also presented McDougall with a $10,000 prize. The Louis Schwitzer Award, a prestigious accolade in the automotive engineering industry, recognizes groundbreaking innovations that push the boundaries of automotive technology.

Positive

• Andrew McDougall's Xtrac ESA fosters faster gear shifts and reduced weight, enhancing the competitive performance of race cars.
• The ESA's increased accuracy and repeatability, along with reduced electrical demand on the race car, signify notable technological advancement.
• Cummins' partnership with Valvoline Global Operations celebrates 30 years, showcasing a strong, enduring collaboration with positive market perception.
• Receiving the prestigious Louis Schwitzer Award increases Cummins' reputation for innovation and excellence in automotive engineering.

Negative

• The $10,000 prize might be seen as a minor financial outlay for Cummins despite the award's prestige.
• The focus on a niche market, such as motorsport, might limit broader market impact or investor interest in Cummins.

INDIANAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Today at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI) and Valvoline Global Operations celebrate Andrew McDougall – who was honored with the 2024 Louis Schwitzer Award for his Xtrac Electric Servo Actuator, which has been adopted by the NTT INDYCAR® SERIES. In addition to the award, Cummins, Valvoline Global, and the Indiana Section of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) International presented Andrew McDougall with a $10,000 prize.

Valvoline Global, a worldwide leader in automotive and industrial solutions, and Cummins, a global power leader, are proud to sponsor the Louis Schwitzer Award. This award is a prestigious accolade in the automotive engineering industry, celebrating and recognizing groundbreaking innovations that push the boundaries of automotive technology.

Named after Louis Schwitzer, an accomplished engineer and race car driver, this award has a rich history of honoring individuals and teams behind the innovative concepts introduced to the motorsport industry that increase competitive potential, meet NTT INDYCAR SERIES specifications, and are related to the vehicle's engine, powertrain, profile, chassis or safety. The Louis Schwitzer Award showcases the best and brightest in the automotive engineering community.

This year, the award committee received an impressive array of submissions, highlighting the industry's reputation for celebrating innovation. The winner of this year’s Louis Schwitzer Award is Andrew McDougall. His innovative Xtrac Electric Servo Actuator (ESA) is a new gear change system for sequential shift transmissions. The benefits of this system include faster shifts, reduced weight, fewer components, and increased efficiency. The ESA incorporates direct actuation that provides increased accuracy, and repeatability while reducing electrical demand on the race car.

"The Louis Schwitzer Award is a testament to the innovative spirit driving the automotive industry," remarked Roger England, Head of R&D at Valvoline Global Operations, emphasizing the collaboration with Cummins. "Together, Valvoline Global and Cummins are honored to recognize the exceptional work of these innovators reshaping transportation and inspiring future engineers."

Aaron Quinton, Cummins Engine Business Unit Product Line Architect, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the award's esteemed history in celebrating engineering excellence and innovation. Quinton emphasized the significance of the partnership and said, "Co-sponsoring the LSA with our partner Valvoline means a lot, presenting a valuable opportunity to celebrate the enduring 30th anniversary partnership between Cummins and Valvoline."

About Cummins Inc.

Cummins Inc., a global power solutions leader, is comprised of five business segments – Components, Engine, Distribution, Power Systems and Accelera by Cummins – supported by our global manufacturing and extensive service and support network, skilled workforce and vast technological expertise. Cummins is committed to its Destination Zero strategy, which is grounded in the company’s commitment to sustainability and helping its customers successfully navigate the energy transition with its broad portfolio of products. The products range from advanced diesel, natural gas, electric and hybrid powertrains and powertrain-related components including filtration, aftertreatment, turbochargers, fuel systems, valvetrain technologies, controls systems, air handling systems, automated transmissions, axles, drivelines, brakes, suspension systems, electric power generation systems, batteries, electrified power systems, hydrogen production technologies and fuel cell products. Headquartered in Columbus, Indiana (U.S.), since its founding in 1919, Cummins employs approximately 75,500 people committed to powering a more prosperous world through three global corporate responsibility priorities critical to healthy communities: education, environment and equality of opportunity. Cummins serves its customers online, through a network of company-owned and independent distributor locations, and through thousands of dealer locations worldwide and earned about $735 million on sales of $34.1 billion in 2023. See how Cummins is powering a world that's always on by accessing news releases and more information at https://www.cummins.com/.

About Valvoline™ Global Operations

Valvoline Global is a worldwide leader in automotive and industrial solutions, creating future-ready products and best-in-class services for partners around the globe. Established in 1866, the company introduced the world’s first branded motor oil and developed strong brand recognition and customer satisfaction ratings across multiple product channels. With sales in more than 140 countries and territories, Valvoline Global’s solutions are available for every engine and drivetrain, including high-mileage and heavy-duty vehicles, offered at more than 80,000 locations. Valvoline Global is powering the future of mobility through innovative solutions for vehicles with electric, hybrid and internal combustion powertrains – and the company will continue to solve for global automotive and industrial challenges as it moves forward. To learn more, visit ValvolineGlobal.com.

™ Trademark, Valvoline Global or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240517977844/en/

Jon Mills

Director – External Communications

317-658-4540

jon.mills@cummins.com

Source: Cummins Inc.

FAQ

What is the Xtrac Electric Servo Actuator by Andrew McDougall?

The Xtrac ESA is an innovative gear change system for sequential shift transmissions, offering benefits like faster shifts, reduced weight, and increased efficiency.

Why did Andrew McDougall win the 2024 Louis Schwitzer Award?

Andrew McDougall won the award for his development of the Xtrac Electric Servo Actuator, which enhances gear change systems in race cars.

What did Cummins and Valvoline Global Operations present to Andrew McDougall?

They presented him with a $10,000 prize as part of the 2024 Louis Schwitzer Award.

What impact does the Louis Schwitzer Award have on Cummins (NYSE: CMI)?

The award enhances Cummins' reputation for innovation and excellence in automotive engineering, potentially boosting its market perception.

How does the Xtrac Electric Servo Actuator benefit race cars?

It offers faster shifts, reduces weight, incorporates fewer components, increases accuracy and repeatability, and lowers electrical demand.