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

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.
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
| Feature | Cummins | Perkins | MTU | Volvo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Range | 10–2000 kW | 10–2000 kW | 652–3200 kW | 140–581.6 kW |
| Fuel Efficiency | Excellent | Very good | Outstanding | Excellent |
| Maintenance | Easy, global network | Low cost | Long intervals | Minimal |
| Noise Level | Standard | Standard | Low | Very low |
| Ideal Application | Hospitals, data centers | Construction, farms | Mining, industrial | Backup & telecom |
| Origin | USA | UK | Germany | Sweden |
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.