The Vision of Clessie Cummins

Clessie Cummins was a born engineer. By the age of 11, he had already demonstrated his mechanical prowess by crafting a functioning steam engine to supply water for his family’s farm. His connection to the world of high-speed racing began in 1911, when he served as part of the pit crew for the Marmon Wasp during the very first Indy 500. It was during this historic event that the team introduced the world's first rearview mirror, a simple yet revolutionary invention for automotive history.


Proving Diesel’s Potential

While diesel engines were traditionally seen as stationary power sources, Cummins was convinced they could power the future of transportation. To demonstrate his theory, he took a Packard Touring sedan, equipped it with his own diesel engine, and set out on a journey from Indiana to New York. The car achieved an impressive 26 mpg, consuming only 30 gallons of fuel over the 800-mile trip.


Despite the economic instability of the Great Depression, Cummins sought the ultimate testing ground: the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Eddie Rickenbacker, the owner of the track at the time, was struggling to fill the starting grid following the 1929 stock market crash, providing the perfect opportunity for Cummins to showcase his technology.


A Historic Performance in 1931

In 1931, the No. 8 Cummins diesel car, driven by Dave Evans, qualified for the 17th position. The performance was nothing short of extraordinary:

  • The vehicle finished in 13th place overall.
  • It became the first car in the history of the Indy 500 to complete the entire 500-mile race without making a single pit stop or refueling.
  • The total cost of the fuel used for the race was a mere $1.40 worth of furnace oil.

Advancements and Legacy

Cummins returned to the track in 1934 with two cars to test the efficiency of two-stroke versus four-stroke diesel technology. While the two-stroke engine performed well, the data gathered convinced Cummins that the four-stroke engine was the superior choice for future heavy-duty applications.


The company continued to push the boundaries of diesel racing until 1952, when a Cummins car captured pole position but ultimately retired early due to mechanical issues caused by track debris. This marked the end of the diesel era at the Brickyard. Today, the legendary No. 8 car is preserved at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, standing as a testament to a pioneer who forever changed how we perceive fuel efficiency and engine durability.