As emissions regulations evolve, many fleets are wondering what EPA 2027 will mean for their trucks, their maintenance costs, and their day-to-day operations. There is a lot of information and discussion surrounding these requirements, a few of the top implications as it stands today*: 

1. Much lower NOx emissions required: Starting in model year 2027, engines must cut nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by roughly 80-90% compared to today.
2. Advanced testing requirements: In addition to lab testing, the EPA is expanding conditions where emissions must stay low, including: low-speed operation, idle and low-load situations, and more real-world driving. 
3. Longer durability and warranty requirements: Expect the useful life standards to increase to up to 650,000 miles, meaning equipment must remain EPA compliant until 650k miles (not just when it's new). This also means warranty periods will be longer.

 

It is expected that the EPA will proceed with the 2027 start date, meaning these requirements will go into effect January 1, 2027. The good news? International S13® Integrated Powertrain is already on the path to EPA 2027 compliance without adding unnecessary complexity. With minimal changes, it delivers compliance, efficiency, and performance.  

International took a smart, measured approach to EPA 2027. Instead of introducing an entirely new system, the 2027 S13 Integrated Powertrain carries over roughly 90% of its proven hardware from today's platform. This means:

• Familiar components
• Proven reliability
• Minimal disruption for fleets, technicians, and drivers
• Weight-neutral to the current product

 

The result is a trusted powertrain that meets future emissions requirements while continuing to deliver the performance and efficiency customers expect. 

The S13 Integrated Powertrain isn't new. It already has over two years of real-world production experience and has proven itself as a fuel economy leader** in head-to-head testing against competitive highway models. We're keeping all the key components to ensure continued results. Here's what's staying the same:

 

S13 Engine:

• No EGR cooler (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)
• Fixed geometry turbo with smart DEF dosing for superior NOx reduction and performance
• No diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) or fuel dosing
• Dual overhead cam (DOHC) design for efficient breathing and fuel efficiency
• 23:1 compression ratio for smoother starts and reduced parasitic losses
• Lightest weight 13L engine in North America

 

T14 Transmission:

• Unique planetary gearset makes the T14 the lightest, shortest and compact 14-speed transmission in the industry
• Smooth, fast-shifting with an electronic clutch actuator (ECA) that delivers a more responsive driving experience
• Integrated oil cooler with advanced lubrication system
• Wide overall gear ratio at 26.7:1, with crawler gears and up to 6 speeds in revers
• Optional factory-installed PTOs for faster upfitting and improved quality (with the same warranty as the T14 transmission)

 

Dual-Stage Aftertreatment System:

• Same size and packaging as current systems
• No pre-heating elements required
• Meets emissions standards without adding a 48V grid heater

 

While the foundation stays familiar, International has made smart refinements to support EPA 2027 compliance and improved performance. Here's what will be a bit different in 2027: 

 

S13 Engine: 

• Elimination of external EGR, simplifying the system architecture.
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) delivering smoother performance and greater power across all engine speeds and loads, while also reducing emissions 
• Variable Valve Braking (VVB) with braking horsepower increased from 470 HP to 560 HP
• Closed Crankcase Breather and oil centrifuge for cleaner operation and consistent oil drain intervals

 

T14 Transmission:

• Updated 24V Transmission Control Module (TCM) that learns driver behavior and uses GPS and terrain data to optimize shifting for fuel efficiency and performance 

 

Dual-State Aftertreatment System:

• New cable harness reduces complexity by tying into the 24V electrical architecture used across the entire powertrain

 

Electrical Architecture:

• 12V cab and chassis systems remain, keeping body builders and accessories familiar
• 24V powertrain components improve cold starts, durability, and battery life without adding aftertreatment complexity

 

The International S13 Integrated Powertrain is EPA 2027 ready. It gets there with minimal change, proven hardware, and a continued focus on efficiency, durability and uptime. For fleets and owner operators, that means confidence moving forward without sacrificing the things that matter most: reliability, serviceability, and total cost of ownership. Cummins has indicated that it will also have products ready for the updated guidelines, including the X15, X10, and B7.2 but it's expected to come with increased complexity and significant addition to the weight. 

 

With the new regulations, customers should expect price increases and introductions of new technology - but also longer warranties and more durable emissions components are likely. Now is the time to review your 2026-2027 replacement needs and evaluate whether purchasing an in-stock unit is best for your business. Regardless of your anticipated purchase date, rest assured that International and the team here at Allegiance Truck Centers will be ready to answer any questions and find the truck that works for your fleet. 

 

If you have questions about EPA 2027 and how you can best prepare your fleet, contact us for more information. 

 

*These guidelines can change at any time, this information is as of December 2026. 

**The International® LT® Series truck with S13® Integrated Powertrain was tested head-to-head using TMC Type IV testing methodology against competitive on-highway aero models with comparable specifications: Freightliner Cascadia AeroX DD15, Kenworth T680 MX13, Volvo VNL760 D13. Testing proved the International LT Series with S13 Integrated Powertrain to be at least 5% more fuel efficient than these models. The International LT Series with S13 Integrated Powertrain uses up to 3.5% more DEF per gallon of fuel compared to comparable on-highway aerodynamic models.

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