2010 engine demand prompts layoff plan at Cummins

The Cummins plant in New York is producing about 500 truck engines a day right now to fill a spike in orders ahead of a Jan. 1 change in emissions standards. After the emissions change, production will drop to 100 engines a day.

The Associated Press

12/3/2009

JAMESTOWN, N.Y. — Cummins Inc. says it will temporarily reduce the work force at its western New York engine plant by about 400 people in anticipation of a drop in orders after the first of the year.

Spokesman Mark Land says the Jamestown plant is producing about 500 truck engines a day right now to fill a spike in orders ahead of a Jan. 1 change in emissions standards.

The plant employs 1,100 workers making engines for tractor trailers.

After the emissions change, production will drop to 100 engines a day as orders are expected to fall off even more than usual because of the weak economy.

Executives at the company’s Columbus, Ind., headquarters say Wednesday most of the layoffs are expected to be voluntary because health benefits will continue. They’re expected to last at least four to six months.

Kevin Jones of The Trucker staff can be reached for comment at kevinj@thetrucker.com.

Follow The Trucker on Twitter at www.twitter.com/truckertalk.