McLaren Applied Technologies has won the tender to be the exclusive supplier of the Formula E batteries for 2018/2019 and 2019/2020, the FIA has announced following a meeting of the World Motor Sport Council on Wednesday in Paris.
Since its inception in 2014/2015, the all-electric series’ organisers have been looking to remove the necessity for drivers to switch vehicles halfway through a race due to the car’s battery life being too short.
Williams has been providing first-generation batteries to all FE teams since the start of the zero-emission championship and was reportedly in the running to supply second-generation equipment, as well as Porsche, Renault/Red Bull Technologies, and Mahindra.
McLaren’s deal is only valid for two seasons “in light of the ongoing rapid development of battery technology”, reads a FIA statement.
“I am absolutely delighted that a company with such a reputation for engineering excellence and expertise like McLaren Applied Technologies will be producing the new battery,” Formula E CEO Alejandro Agag is quoted as saying by GPUpdate.net.
“Over just four seasons, Formula E will have inspired a 100 per cent increase in range – a phenomenal achievement.
"We will continue to push the boundaries of electric car technology and we can expect even greater gains to be possible when the third generation of batteries arrive for season seven.”
Reacting to the announcement, Rodi Basso, Motorsport Director of McLaren Applied Technologies, added: “We’re delighted McLaren has been chosen by the FIA to be the sole supplier of batteries to Formula E from 2018 to 2020. Our new battery will almost double the energy storage, eliminating the need for drivers to swap cars during a race.
“As well as providing a global showcase for our sustainable technologies, this win provides another example of McLaren Applied Technologies’ vision to work closely with series partners to do our bit to help make the fan experience quicker and slicker.”
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