Cummins Inc. this week announced an investment of $24 million over three years to expand the research and development capabilities at its technical center in North Charleston, S.C.

The Cummins Technical Center will be capable of running a variety of engines and test a wide range of fuels. Plans call for hiring 31 new engineers, mechanical technicians and electrical technicians immediately with more potential hires in the future.

“The expansion nearly doubles capacity at this site with state-of-the-art facilities to enable testing on diesel, pipe line natural gas and non standard gas engines and help the company in its drive to be the innovation leader in the industry,” said Jim Trueblood, vice president – high-horsepower engineering. “We are excited to be able to partner with the State of South Carolina and expand our testing facilities right here in North Charleston.”

Headquartered in Columbus, Ind., Cummins Inc., designs, manufactures, distributes and services engines and related technologies, including fuel systems, controls, air handling, filtration, emission solutions and electrical power generation systems.