Williams

Williams helps Aston Martin go electric

Aston Martin announced that its first all-electric model, the RapidE, will enter production in 2019 based on the British marque’s recently launched Rapide AMR concept.

The RapidE is Aston Martin’s first all-electric model and will be limited to a run of 155 cars whilst Williams Advanced Engineering will assist with the complex task of engineering integration.

Based upon the Rapide AMR concept, RapidE will deliver four-door sports car looks and dynamics of the Rapide S powered by an all-electric powertrain replacing the six-litre V12 engine.

Williams Advanced Engineering recently led a consortium of organisations, including Aston Martin, in a successful bid for an APC (Advanced Propulsion Centre) Competition.

This funding will be used to build a high performance, low volume, flexible battery manufacturing facility in the UK, the battery for the RapidE will be ‘halo’ project for this facility.

Technical Director at Williams Advanced Engineering, Paul McNamara, commented:

"Williams Advanced Engineering has always endeavoured to work collaboratively with its customers to meet their sustainability challenges and find energy efficient solutions.

"For today’s car manufacturers, this is particularly important as legislation demands more energy efficient vehicles.

"This project with Aston Martin will draw on the extensive battery and EV experience we have accumulated and we are extremely pleased to be supporting this prestigious British company with their future electrification strategy."

As a reminder, Aston Martin is also involved in a joint venture with Red Bull Racing for the design and engineering of the marque's 'hypercar', the AM-RB 001.

The project has been led by Red Bull's chief technical officer Adrian Newey and aims to put on the road the fastest street-legal car in the world.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.