UK’s first battery trains to be manufactured in North East
Turntide Technologies, a leader in electrification solutions based in Gateshead, has been selected by Hitachi Rail to supply the Gen 2 lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery system for the Grand Central intercity battery train contract.
These next-generation LFP batteries, designed to be smaller and more powerful than their predecessors, are part of an order placed after Hitachi Rail was awarded a contract to build nine intercity tri-mode trains for Arriva’s Grand Central and Angel Trains.
These are to be the first new battery trains produced in the UK.
Hitachi Rail will place orders worth nearly £10 million with Turntide Technologies to continue research and development as well as supply LFP batteries.
This venture will result in the expansion of Turntide Technologies’ Gateshead facility.
Along with the battery systems, Turntide’s solution includes an advanced battery management system equipped with Safety Integrity Level 2 functional safety, in compliance with IEC 61508, and security measures in line with IEC 62243 standards.
This ensures a ‘safe, secure, and reliable’ performance for next-generation mobility.
With Turntide Technologies in Gateshead and Hitachi Rail’s factory in Newton Aycliffe, this partnership is helping the rolling stock manufacturing industry unlock new growth in the North East battery sector.
Both companies believe that new battery trains, and retrofitting batteries onto existing trains, can create a significant and long-term advanced manufacturing and industrial opportunity for the UK.
The investment in battery technology is a nod to the 200th anniversary of the railways, which originated in the North East, signaling the region’s continuing influence in shaping the future of transport.
Industry Minister Sarah Jones said: “This is great news for the North East’s thriving advanced manufacturing sector, and it’s fitting that this comes in the 200th anniversary of the railways being born in the region.
“Pioneering battery technologies are key to keeping UK industry at the forefront of innovation, and our modern Industrial Strategy will drive growth in sectors like these and support good, skilled jobs as part of our Plan for Change.”
Steve Hornyak, CEO of Turntide Technologies, said: “This is a major win for Turntide.
“Our collaborative relationship with Hitachi Rail transitions from strength to strength and being selected for this milestone project reflects the quality and innovation of our electrification technology.
“As battery-electric trains gain global momentum, we’re honored to support a project that represents not just regional progress, but a broader shift toward sustainable transport across continents.
“In the year that marks 200 years of rail, it’s fitting that our region remains at the forefront of transport innovation, helping shape a more sustainable future for passengers, operators, and the environment.”
Koji Agatsuma, chief technology officer vehicles at Hitachi Rail, said: “Our additional £10 million investment into Turntide Technologies demonstrates our commitment to North East battery innovation.
“Battery trains aren’t just about delivering greener, quieter journeys, they also create a new advanced manufacturing opportunity and unlock energy optimisation through vehicle-to-grid technology.”
Paul Hutchings, managing director of Arriva UK Trains’ Rail Services, said: “We’re extremely proud of our roots in the North East, so we’re thrilled that the technologically advanced batteries for our new fleet of trains for Grand Central will also be manufactured there.
“This partnership in developing state-of-the-art technology will reduce emissions and fuel usage while giving passengers a more comfortable experience.”
This latest development further strengthens Turntide’s long-term relationship with Hitachi Rail.
In 2020, Turntide signed an exclusive agreement to design and supply traction battery systems for Hitachi Rail, resulting in the UK’s first intercity battery train trial, completed in 2024.
The two companies have also worked together to develop smaller, next-generation battery technology using LFP chemistry.
This is said to be crucial to achieving inclusive train design, especially in lower floor rolling stock where space is limited.