Turntide Technologies is expanding production of high-voltage rail batteries at its Sunderland facility, driven by demand from Hitachi Rail and the global growth of hybrid rail operations.

The North East manufacturer will increase capacity for its lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery systems, which enable hybrid and tri-mode trains to operate across both electrified and non-electrified routes while reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

The systems will be manufactured exclusively in Sunderland, where Turntide has the production space and testing capabilities needed to support the expansion.

The move follows Turntide’s recent production milestone for Arriva’s new Grand Central intercity fleet, which is being built by Hitachi Rail at Newton Aycliffe in County Durham.

As Northern Engineer previously reported, Turntide received its first production order from Hitachi Rail following several years of research and development.

A successful intercity trial in 2024 demonstrated that the battery system could reduce fuel costs by between 30% and 50%, or allow trains to operate with zero emissions while in battery mode. The technology also has the potential to support the retrofitting of more than 600 engines across Hitachi Rail’s existing UK fleets.

Turntide’s modular system is designed to provide greater power density within the same footprint as a diesel engine. It offers operators lower running costs and extended range while reducing reliance on fossil fuels, air pollution and noise.

“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.”

With roughly half of the global rail network still reliant on diesel, tri-mode technology offers a faster and more cost-effective alternative to extending overhead electrification infrastructure across every route.

Paul Turbitt, senior director of strategic operations at Turntide, will oversee the Sunderland facility and its manufacturing expansion.