U.K.-based Williams Advanced Engineering is now the latest company to join the electric vehicle R&D race, with their recent announcement of a lightweight concept model that could fit multiple vehicle types and wheelbases.
“These technologies, and our thinking around how to create a tightly integrated, lightweight chassis and powertrain package, have the potential to greatly increase the competitiveness of the new generation electric vehicles,” Paul McNamara, technical director at Williams, said.
The model–designated FW-EVX–uses an energy storage system and electric powertrain and hopes to make particular shake ups in the battery pack design of electric vehicles. Their model is a modular battery concept, with fiber-reinforced suspension components that bring the vehicle in question an up to 40 percent weight reduction when stacked up against a traditional aluminum wishbone. They hope to integrate more aerodynamically efficient cooling systems that incorporate crash energy absorption.
In addition, Williams is emphasizing scalability with its current project. The FW-EVX was initially revealed in Millbrook, U.K., in the form of an all-wheel drive vehicle, Williams has noted that it is also able to configure for a rear-drive-only vehicle. The platform comes with an 800V system, complete with major systems design to use aluminum pressings and fabrication. Company patents are also pending for a so-called silent drivetrain.
The fact the company is entering the game with designs on performance and range should be no surprise, though. Williams is best known as a Formula One company, so redesigns would ideally go for better overall performance, though they have also promoted a push for safer and greener vehicles as well.