US engine maker Cummins is to produce light-duty diesel engines for the pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUV) of another major car manufacturer.

It refused to name its new partner, citing "competitive reasons" for keeping the information confidential for the time being.

Cummins only described it as "a major automotive manufacturer serving the north American market".   

As part of the agreement, Cummins will develop and manufacture a family of light-duty diesel engines for a variety of automotive applications in vehicles below 8,500lbs gross vehicle weight, which include standard pickup trucks and SUVs. 

Certain bus, marine and industrial applications also will be served by this engine family, it said.

"This agreement gives the driving public an even greater opportunity to experience the benefits of a new class of vehicles powered by a high-performance, fuel-efficient, clean diesel engine made by Cummins," said Tim Solso, Cummins chairman and chief executive.   

"This line of diesel engines also will fuel the growth of an exciting new market in which Cummins does not currently participate."
   
The first vehicles with the engine are expected to hit the market by the end of the decade.

The company already makes diesel engines for a number of top motor companies including German firm DaimlerChrysler and Ford.

Diesel engine catalytic converters require a platinum-based catalyst to filter out harmful emissions.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd