Williams Advanced Engineering to Supply Batteries for Formula E Cars

Spark Racing Technology (SPARK) has announced today a partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering to design and assemble the batteries that will power its fully-electric SRT_01E car for the FIA Formula E Championship.

Williams Advanced Engineering, part of the Williams group of companies that includes the world famous Williams F1 Team, is one of the pioneers of hybrid systems and their innovative technologies have been extremely successful on the international scene. As such they will be the supplier of batteries to SPARK, who were commissioned last year by Championship promoter Formula E Holdings to build 42 cars for the inaugural season, which will see electric Formula cars racing on 10 street circuits worldwide.

The new partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering will complement the vast range of technical expertise already being used by Spark Racing Technology, which includes a consortium consisting of McLaren, Renault and Dallara. McLaren Electronic Systems will supply the transmission, electronics and powertrain for the car, while Technical Partner Renault SAS will use its vast technological expertise to optimize the electric and electronic layout and performance of the powertrain. Meanwhile, leading Italian firm Dallara will produce the chassis with tyres being supplied by Tyre Partner Michelin.

“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,” said Sir Frank Williams, Founder and Team Principal of Williams. “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. 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 added: “I am delighted to welcome Williams into our new project. The vast experience from Williams and especially from Williams Advanced Engineering in the field of hybrid systems and electric engine power, guarantees quality. 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.”