Second quarter revenues of US$6.2 billion increased 1 percent from the same quarter in 2018. Increased truck production in North America and stronger demand in North American power generation markets was partially offset by lower demand in oil and gas and international truck markets. Currency negatively impacted revenues by 2 percent primarily due to a stronger US dollar. 

Second quarter sales in North America set a new record and improved by 7 percent while international revenues decreased by 6 percent. Sales in North America increased in all segments except Power Systems, which was negatively impacted by lower demand in oil and gas markets. International revenues declined primarily due to lower truck demand in China, Europe, Brazil, and India.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) in the second quarter were a record US$1.1 billion, or 17.0 percent of sales, compared with US$897 million or 14.6 percent of sales a year ago. Net income attributable to Cummins in the second quarter was US$675 million (US$4.27 per diluted share), compared with net income of US$545 million (US$3.32 per diluted share).

“We achieved record revenues, EBITDA, and operating cash flow in the first half of 2019, extending our track record of raising performance cycle over cycle,” said chairman and CEO Tom Linebarger. “While we do expect to see a moderation in demand in the second half of the year, our financial strength combined with our diversified geographic and end market exposure will enable us to generate strong profits, continue to invest in future growth, and return cash to shareholders.”

2019 Outlook

Cummins now expects 2019 revenue to be flat, which places the forecast at the low end of its previous guidance range of flat to 4 percent. This lower outlook is driven by reduced truck demand in international markets, moderating parts demand in North America, and the impact of a stronger US dollar. The company continues to expect EBITDA to be in the range of 16.25 to 16.75 percent of sales and plans to return 75 percent of operating cash flow to shareholders in the form of dividends and share repurchases.

The outlook does not include any potential impact of the company‘s review of its emission certification process and compliance with emissions standards or its acquisition of Hydrogenics. 

Second quarter 2019 highlights

• The board of directors approved a 15 percent increase in the company’s quarterly cash dividend from $1.14 per share to $1.311 per share.

• Cummins entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the majority of shares of fuel cell systems provider Hydrogenics Corporation. The agreement is subject to customary closing conditions and Hydrogenics‘ shareholder approval.

• Cummins and Gillig announced that the GILLIG zero-emission battery electric bus, powered by Cummins, is now available for commercial orders by customers.