Hyperdrive Innovation and Snorkel collaborate on green platform project

A North East battery technology developer has collaborated with an elevated platform manufacturer to deliver environmentally friendlier equipment.

Sunderland-based Hyperdrive Innovation has worked with Washington’s Snorkel to develop new models using lithium-ion battery technology.

Bosses at the businesses say the partnership will deliver greener models that are capable of working for longer periods than lead acid battery technology.

They added the use of maintenance free lithium-ion battery packs also reduces running costs and operational noise.

Stephen Irish, commercial director at Hyperdrive, which employs more than 40 people in Sunderland, said: “It’s been fantastic to partner with Snorkel on their first lithium-ion battery powered machine.

“To have the opportunity to collaborate with another progressive and forward-thinking business at the forefront of their industry is testament to our capabilities and a great example of the wave of clean growth being driven by changing legislation internationally.”

John Gill, Snorkel chief manufacturing officer, added: “We are pleased to have signed an official supply agreement with Hyperdrive Innovation, with whom Snorkel has worked closely with to develop a stable electric powerchain that can deliver the reliability and performance that our customers require.

“The design has undergone thorough testing, both in concept and in field evaluations, and we are confident these models will exceed our customers’ expectations.”

Founded in 2012, Hyperdrive Innovation designs and makes lithium-ion battery systems for off-highway and material handling vehicles, as well as stationary and portable energy storage systems, with its customers including JCB and Northern Powergrid.