10-KPeriod: FY2006

CUMMINS INC Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2006

Filed February 27, 2007For Securities:CMI

Summary

Cummins Inc. (CMI) demonstrated robust financial performance in 2006, reporting record net sales of $11.4 billion and net earnings of $715 million. This growth was driven by strong demand across its key markets, including heavy-duty trucks and power generation, coupled with effective cost reduction strategies and improved market share. The company’s global presence, particularly its expansion into emerging markets like China and India, continues to be a significant growth driver, with international sales comprising 50% of total net sales. Looking ahead, Cummins is focused on innovation, cost leadership, and shareholder value. The company is investing in research and development to meet stringent emissions standards and expand into related, less cyclical markets. Management’s strategic initiatives, including Six Sigma and global sourcing, aim to maintain a competitive cost structure. Despite potential headwinds from economic cycles and regulatory changes, Cummins’ diversified business segments and strong customer relationships position it for continued success.

Key Highlights

  • 1Record net sales of $11.4 billion in 2006, a 15% increase year-over-year, driven by strong demand across all segments.
  • 2Net earnings reached $715 million ($14.21 diluted EPS), up 30% from 2005, reflecting operational efficiencies and sales growth.
  • 3International sales represented 50% of total net sales in 2006, highlighting the company's global reach and growth in emerging markets.
  • 4Significant investments in R&D focused on meeting new emissions standards, particularly the EPA's 2007 heavy-duty standards and early compliance with 2010 standards for certain engines.
  • 5Strategic expansion through joint ventures in key growth regions like China (Beijing Foton Cummins Engine Company) and Russia (ZAO Cummins Kama).
  • 6Debt reduction remains a priority, with total debt decreasing by $556 million in 2006, leading to an improved debt-to-capital ratio of 22.4%.
  • 7The company continues to return value to shareholders through share repurchases and a 20% increase in its quarterly cash dividend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Revenue growth in 2006 was primarily driven by strong demand across all operating segments, particularly in the heavy-duty truck and power generation markets. Increased volumes in industrial applications and light-duty engines, coupled with higher pricing and improved market share in several areas, also contributed significantly to the 15% increase in net sales.

Cummins is making substantial investments in research and development to meet evolving emissions standards. For example, the company successfully met the EPA's 2007 heavy-duty on-highway emissions standards using a combination of cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and particulate matter (PM) filters. They also announced that their 6.7-liter Dodge Ram Turbo Diesel engine meets the EPA's 2010 emissions standards three years ahead of schedule.

Cummins is actively expanding its global footprint, with international sales comprising 50% of total net sales in 2006. Key strategies include forming joint ventures and alliances in high-growth regions like China (e.g., Beijing Foton Cummins Engine Company) and India, leveraging its extensive distribution network of over 550 company-owned and independent distributors, and focusing on serving local market needs.

Cummins has made significant progress in strengthening its balance sheet. In 2006, total debt decreased by $556 million, leading to a significant improvement in the debt-to-capital ratio to 22.4% from 42.3% in the prior year. The company also redeemed its $250 million 9.5% notes and increased its cash and cash equivalents, demonstrating a focus on financial flexibility and reducing leverage.