For anyone watching the automotive supply chain, Cummins’ new competition is more than a campus quiz; it’s a glimpse into where the company is looking to innovate. The 2026 edition brings together 11 of India’s top business schools, from IIM Lucknow to IIT Delhi, giving students a platform to brainstorm growth ideas across products, technologies, services, and markets.
The challenge isn’t just academic. Cummins, the world’s largest diesel engine manufacturer, has been diversifying into hybrid and electric powertrains. Students will therefore need to think about how to adapt core technologies for emerging vehicles and mobility solutions.
Past winners have gone on to secure roles at leading firms. In 2025, an IIM Ranchi team took the title, while a squad from ISB Mohali was runner‑up – both teams now sit on internships or full‑time offers with Cummins. The cash prizes and pre‑placement interviews add a tangible career payoff.
The two‑day finale, scheduled for November 17–18 at Cummins’ Pune campus, will be the final showdown. Panels of senior executives will critique proposals, and the winning team will earn a ₹10 lakh cash award, a runner‑up prize, and a chance to join a project team on the company’s next generation powertrain.
For industry watchers, the competition’s real value lies in the fresh perspectives it injects into Cummins’ R&D pipeline. As automakers shift to greener solutions, the insights from 6,453 student minds could shape the next wave of engine or electric powertrain development.
Keep an eye on the 2026 finale; the ideas that win might be the ones you see on the road in 2028. And if you’re an automotive enthusiast, following the competition could give you a front‑row seat to the next big shift in powertrain technology.