The expansion follows a recent production milestone and increased demand from Hitachi Rail. Turntide’s high-voltage battery system is designed for hybrid and tri-mode trains, allowing them to operate on both electrified and non-electrified railway lines.
By combining battery power with existing rail technologies, the system is intended to help reduce fuel consumption and emissions while supporting longer operating ranges and lower operating costs. It also offers a pathway towards zero-emission rail travel and could help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, air pollution and noise.
The LFP battery systems will be produced exclusively at the Sunderland site. The manufacturing programme is linked to Arriva’s new Grand Central fleet, which is being built by Hitachi Rail at Newton Aycliffe in County Durham.
“The global rail industry is moving quickly toward hybrid and tri-mode platforms as operators look for practical ways to reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and extend the reach of electrified rail networks,” Steve Hornyak, CEO, Turntide, said. “Our continued collaboration with Hitachi Rail reflects the strength of this market demand and the confidence in Turntide’s high-voltage LFP battery technology.
“Expanding production at Sunderland gives us the capacity, capability, and operational focus to support this next phase of growth while helping accelerate cleaner, more flexible rail transportation.”
The company said the Sunderland facility has the manufacturing space and testing capabilities required to support increased production. Paul Turbitt, senior director of strategic operations, will lead the facility and oversee the expansion.
Turntide develops and manufactures electric motors, power electronics and energy storage systems for transport and other moving applications. Its operations span North America, the UK and India, with customers across off-highway automotive, commercial vehicles, rail, marine, light vehicles and premium automotive markets.
The company is also due to feature hybrid rail technology during the August Current & Wave webinar, Hybrid Rail Solutions for the Next Era of Electrified Mobility.
Image: The Sunderland facility. Credit: Turntides.
