Turntide Technologies

Electric trains have been with us for decades, and they are among the most efficient and least polluting forms of travel.

The obvious disadvantage is that they are restricted to electrified track. Creating and extending the necessary infrastructure to the entire network is extremely costly and time-consuming.

This has led to an increased reliance on bi-mode trains, which run on both electricity and diesel. Although flexible, in diesel mode they suffer from higher emissions, are less powerful and more costly to operate.

Battery trains are now emerging to help bridge the gulf created by the fact that just 38.8% of track in Great Britain is electrified.

Turntide Technologies, which designs and manufactures electrification and powertrain systems, is partnering with Hitachi Rail UK to decarbonise the transport sector.

This has resulted in the integration of Turntide’s Hyperdrive battery system into Hitachi’s electric trains, which could be introduced as soon as this year.

The International Energy Agency reports the transport sector is responsible for almost a quarter of global CO2 emissions, and Turntide is dedicated to addressing the complex challenges of UK commercial electrification.

Ryan Morris, CEO of Turntide said: “We recognised that the electrification of the transportation industry is a key piece in the fight against climate change. We've created a company dedicated to decarbonising the world’s most carbon-intensive industries, from buildings to transport. We were able to bring together some of the brightest minds in the industry and create a company uniquely positioned to make a difference.”

Morris is referring to Turntide’s acquisitions and integration of BorgWarner Gateshead, Hyperdrive Innovation, and AVID Technology, all located in the North East of England.

“The North East is a global hub for electrification innovation and manufacturing. Within a short distance, you have the design, supply, and manufacture of the entire powertrain,” he added.

BorgWarner Gateshead was known for its expertise in power electronics and control systems, while Hyperdrive Innovation made significant contributions to the development of high-performance lithium-ion batteries, earning accolades including the Queen’s Award for Enterprise. Meanwhile, AVID Technology specialised in the design and manufacture of electric and hybrid vehicle powertrain systems, motors, and thermal controls. All three have played a key role in the creation of Turntide Transport, and their achievements have been pivotal in the development of its innovative products.

Cumulatively, Turntide’s expertise goes back almost 60 years with roots in Sevcon, acquired by BorgWarner in 2017, and its components power more than 300,000 electric vehicles, ranging from fork-lifts to high-performance sports cars.

In addition to its work with Hitachi Rail for passenger trains, the company is also taking aim at other commercial vehicle sectors including construction equipment.

Heavy-duty vehicles, including excavators, bulldozers, and loaders, are typically diesel-powered and the intense duty cycles, power requirements, and rugged terrain make electrification a difficult engineering challenge.

Starting with compact equipment, Turntide collaborated with global equipment manufacturer JCB in the UK, to introduce the world’s first fully electric mini excavator, powered by Turntide’s Hyperdrive battery system.

Earlier this year, the company introduced the first of itsnew NetZero product line, including the NetZero AXM Axial Flux motor, a prime example of how innovation in motor design is driving the adoption of electric power in the commercial sector. The new motor design offers numerous benefits over traditional motors, including higher power density, greater energy efficiency, and smaller physical footprint.

“We want to solve hard problems and addressing climate change requires urgent solutions across multiple industries. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and to create a more sustainable future for everyone,” Morris said.

Ultimately the success of vehicle electrification relies on the continued innovation and improvement of electric powertrain technology, which will only be hastened by its widespread adoption across the transport sector.

ENDS