King of the Hammers, one of the world’s most demanding off‑road events, will see the participation of
Turntide Technologies’ Sierra Echo‑S, an electric vehicle powered by the company’s axial flux motor technology and developed for the 2026 edition of the competition.
Sierra Echo‑S is equipped with the Turntide’s axial flux motor technology, will compete in the 2026 edition of King of the Hammers, one of the world’s most demanding off‑road events. The King of the Hammers race combines high‑speed desert tracks with technical rock‑crawling sections that test both vehicles and drivers under extreme conditions. Unlike previous electric conversions that have taken part in the competition, Sierra Echo‑S is designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle developed specifically for off‑road use.
For Turntide, the participation aims to assess the performance of its electric propulsion systems in challenging environments where endurance and precision are crucial. The vehicle, first unveiled at SEMA 2025, integrates compact axial flux motors and power electronics to provide high torque and energy efficiency, allowing it to handle steep and irregular terrain with balanced weight distribution.
The Sierra Echo‑S is powered by an 18.6‑kilowatt‑hour battery operating at a nominal voltage of 420 V. The motor configuration delivers 235 Newton‑meters of torque at 1,500 rpm through a 4.56 gear ratio. The off‑road vehicle is fitted with 33‑inch tires and can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in around three seconds.
According to Jason Glass, Director of Business Development for North America, the company’s participation in the race provides an opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities of electric powertrains in sectors ranging from off‑road performance to heavy‑duty applications.
Turntide Technologies designs and manufactures electric motors, power electronics, energy storage systems, and thermal solutions for mobile and industrial applications. The company operates in North America, the U.K., and India, serving markets including off‑highway, commercial transport, rail, marine, light vehicles, and premium automotive.