Williams Advanced Engineering this week announced a new partnership with Spark Racing Technology to design and build batteries to power the new-for-2014 FIA Formula E Championship.
With the dawn of this new series fast approaching, Williams are to produce battery units for 42 Formula E machines, as built by Spark, allowing the Grove company to secure their first series-wide hybrid project.
This deal sees the legendary company join the likes of McLaren, Renault, Michelin and Dallara in delivering products and expertise for the new category.
As part of the company’s growing portfolio, Williams Advanced Engineering have been developing a number of battery and hybrid units for both motorsport and non-motorsport applications, with Williams’ success in this arena reached new heights in 2012, when the Audi R18 E-tron Quattro won the coveted Le Mans 24 Hour Race, while using the company’s much lauded flywheel system.
Outside of motor racing, Williams also supply flywheel systems for London’s bus network as well as a battery hybrid system for the Jaguar C-X75 supercar.
“We are delighted to be partnering with Spark Racing Technology to introduce our battery technology into their cars for next year’s FIA Formula E Championship,” noted Williams founder and Team Principal Sir Frank Williams. He continued, “This is an exciting new racing series that will play a key role in highlighting the growing relevance of technologies originally developed for motorsport to the wider world.”
Kirsty Andrew, Head of Communications at Williams Advanced Engineering added, “Energy efficiency is an important issue for Williams and whilst our work in this field is now spanning a number of market sectors beyond racing, motorsport will always be the ultimate proving ground for our technologies. Electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly important part of the automotive industry and Formula E is the perfect opportunity for Williams to validate the latest developments in battery technology.”
Frédéric Vasseur President of Spark Racing Technology also believes this is to be an incredibly positive step for the burgeoning series. “Spark Racing Technology is extremely proud to bring together some of the biggest names in motorsport and expects no less from Williams as they accompany us in the highest level of the first championship for electric cars. The vast experience from Williams and especially from Williams Advanced Engineering in the field of hybrid systems and electric engine power, guarantees quality.”
