eNtsa is acknowledged internationally as an innovation hub that supports research, design and technology assimilation for the broader manufacturing sector, with a focus on the automotive, power generation and petrochemicals industries. eNtsa, a registered engagement institute of Nelson Mandela University, hosts a number of programmes and projects to advance  engineering support for technology and human resource development within South Africa.

eNtsa contributes to industry with a vast range of specialised services which are aimed to support and stimulate local innovation through supplier development initiatives. eNtsa is able to make much-needed engineering skills, services and training more readily available to SMEs operating in the local manufacturing and automotive sector through its technology station programme (TSP), supported by the technology innovation agency (TIA).

Its advanced design and modelling capabilities provide a comprehensive range of mechanical design and consulting services which range from mechanical parts or systems design, through simulation of parts or systems by advanced finite element analysis. 

Mechanical and material testing services focuses on providing professional metallurgical services in the field of failure investigation and assessing process/production-related material challenges. Other services include material conformance testing with regard to material microstructure, chemical composition, environmental and mechanical properties.

The training academy initiative supports efforts focused at supplier development by providing skills development interventions to staff and students, local industry and the engineering community.

The uYilo eMobility technology innovation programme is a multi-stakeholder programme hosted by eNtsa and initiated by the TIA, which operates with a mandate to actively enable, facilitate and develop the electric mobility industry in South Africa. The facilities and services established within uYilo extend across a national accredited battery testing laboratory, an electric vehicle systems laboratory and a live testing environment that provide a holistic enabling environment for the development of the electric mobility ecosystem in South Africa.

Industrial research and development focus on joining technologies, such as solid state welding and laser processing. Expanding research and technology transfer particularly in the field of friction hydro pillar welding and laser processing (complex cutting, welding and metal deposition) within Nelson Mandela University and local industry, has been a key research area that has initiated various local and international collaborations. eNtsa is also the home of the internationally patented WeldCore process.

eNtsa continuously strives to enhance technology innovation and to stimulate a climate of sustainable socioeconomic growth in South Africa, and maintains strong relations with the TIA and the Department of Science and Technology.