Turntide recognised for battery work with Queen’s Award for Enterprise

A business helping the transport sector boost its green credentials has been honoured for its work.

Turntide Technologies has received a Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

The accolade highlights the operator’s development of Hyperdrive battery systems, which are helping convert commercial vehicle makers from internal combustion engines to electric power.

Developed by Sunderland’s Hyperdrive Innovation – which was bought by Turntide in 2021 – the technology is used by clients including Hitachi Rail, JCB and Snorkel.

The business received its award from Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear Lucy Winskell in a ceremony at the company’s Wearside base, which also featured the city’s mayor Councillor Alison Smith.

Chris Pennison, Turntide’s senior vice president – strategic operations, said: “This is an immensely proud moment for the company and our highly talented team of engineers and operational staff.

“It is testament to the innovation-led approach we instilled in the business when we launched as Hyperdrive in 2012.

“Now, as part of Turntide, the technology can have a greater and wider impact in the decarbonisation of industry and our collective ambitions to achieve net-zero at a global level.”

Lord-Lieutenant Winskell said: “Innovation is a cornerstone of British industry, and the team behind the Hyperdrive battery are a great example of the tenacity and creativity that can have a global impact.”

Councillor Smith added: “This award shows how companies in our city and region continue to be at the centre of the developing low-carbon economy.”

• Pictured, from left to right, are Chris Pennison, Turntide’s senior vice president – strategic operations; Councillor Alison Smith, Mayor of Sunderland; Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear Lucy Winskell; Paul Turbitt, of Turntide; and Mark Cox, Turntide’s transport business general manager