Perkins launches 1106 engine manufacturing line in Wuxi

Now Perkins looks at over 130,000 engines being manufactured by 2015.

According to Gerard Steel, the new engine line offers more advantages to manufacturers. “Initially we see those customers in the electric power market taking advantage of the 200kVA power node. Traditionally this has been achieved using engines of bigger displacement, typically 8.3 litres. Therefore being able to offer 200kVA from a smaller, more compact 7.1 litre, six cylinder unit has numerous advantages for genset manufacturers. Smaller dimensions, greater power density and lower running costs, all combine to make the end product extremely competitive on a kVA/litre basis,” he said.

The new line features the latest manufacturing equipment and processes and promises to deliver engines of the highest quality. From the moment the engine build starts, a series of systems and controls provide the operatives with all the information and guidance necessary to ensure that each engine is assembled to the exact customer specification, he added.

“Well by 2015 we are looking at over 130,000 engines being manufactured with expectations that total output including the 400 and 1104 engines will be in excess of 160,000 units. That equates to 30% of the global production of these engines. It does represent a dramatic shift but it is a sign that we foresee demand here in China climbing steadily. The 1106 product started production with over 50 per cent local content by component value and both the 1104 and 1106 products will source 85% of the components by value from local suppliers. That’s great news for local businesses and recognition that they can achieve the kind of quality standards that we are looking for,” said Mr. Steel.

According to Gwenne Henricks, Perkins’ President, “It is a significant milestone in our journey to develop strong relationships with OEMs, to meet their requirements at a machine and application level and to help them grow their business on both a domestic and international basis.”