Diesel Generator Brand Comparison: Cummins, Perkins, MTU & Volvo

diesel generator brand comparison
November 7, 2025

When choosing a diesel generator brand, making the right decision is crucial for long-term reliability and performance. This diesel generator brand comparison helps you understand how leading manufacturers — Cummins, Perkins, MTU, and Volvo — differ in efficiency, maintenance, and durability for various industrial and commercial applications in Canada.

ETAC Power supplies a full range of CSA-certified diesel generators, including Cummins, Perkins, MTU, and Volvo models. All units meet Emission Standards EPA Tier 3 or Tier 4 standards and are configured for fast delivery across Canada.

Why Diesel Generator Brand Selection Matters

Diesel generators are a long-term investment for critical power systems. The right brand choice ensures:

  • Reliable performance under variable loads and harsh climates

  • Ease of maintenance and local parts availability

  • Compliance with Canadian CSA and EPA standards

  • Efficiency that minimizes fuel costs over years of operation

Each brand—Cummins, Perkins, MTU, and Volvo—has earned global recognition, but their designs suit slightly different operational needs.

Cummins Diesel Generator Brand

Best for: Data centers, hospitals, and emergency backup
Power range: 10 kW – 2000 kW

Cummins diesel generators are renowned for reliability, fuel efficiency, and long service life. They perform exceptionally well in both prime and standby applications, offering fast startup and consistent power.

ETAC’s Cummins  units Compliance meet CSA and EPA Tier 3/4 standards, with options like sound-attenuated enclosures, winter kits, and remote monitoring.
 View Cummins Diesel Generators .

Perkins Diesel Generator Brand

Best for: Construction, agriculture, and small industrial sites
Power range: 10 kW – 2000 kW

Perkins diesel generators are trusted for fuel economy and low maintenance costs. Their modular design allows easy servicing — ideal for businesses prioritizing lifecycle cost savings.

Perkins gensets deliver high efficiency across variable loads and are widely used for standby applications in Canada.

Explore Perkins Diesel Generators 

MTU Diesel Generator Brand

Best for: Mining, utilities, continuous heavy-duty operation
Power range: 652 kW – 3200 kW

Engineered in Germany, MTU diesel generators are built for continuous power and industrial performance. With advanced common-rail fuel systems and electronic management, MTU units offer exceptional efficiency, low noise, and long service intervals.

Ideal for mission-critical applications that demand endurance and reliability.
See MTU Diesel Generators 

Volvo Diesel Generator Brand

Best for: Commercial standby, construction, and telecom sites
Power range: 140 kW – 581.6 kW

Volvo gensets combine quiet operation, low vibration, and strong cold-weather performance—perfect for Canadian climates. With minimal maintenance and robust block-heater options, Volvo units deliver dependable backup power for business continuity.
Discover Volvo Diesel Generators 

Diesel Generator Brand Comparison Table

FeatureCumminsPerkinsMTUVolvo
Power Range10–2000 kW10–2000 kW652–3200 kW140–581.6 kW
Fuel EfficiencyExcellentVery goodOutstandingExcellent
MaintenanceEasy, global networkLow costLong intervalsMinimal
Noise LevelStandardStandardLowVery low
Ideal ApplicationHospitals, data centersConstruction, farmsMining, industrialBackup & telecom
OriginUSAUKGermanySweden

Which Generator Brand Is Right for You?

  • Choose Cummins if you need a proven, all-around performer for mission-critical backup.

  • Choose Perkins for cost-efficient and easy-to-maintain standby solutions.

  • Choose MTU when continuous industrial power is required.

  • Choose Volvo for quiet, reliable backup in cold or urban environments.

ETAC Power supplies and configures diesel generators to meet CSA and EPA standards across Canada. We provide fast delivery, custom configuration, and expert support.

Request a Quote Today or explore our full Diesel Generator Lineup.

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