A division of Williams Grand Prix Engineering, a Formula One racing team, has signed a deal with aeronautics giant Airbus to provide auto racing-inspired technology to help further develop the capabilities of drones.
Williams Advanced Engineering, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), will collaborate with Airbus on the company’s Zephyr High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS) program. Specifically, the partnership will focus on integrating Williams’ ultra-lightweight materials, battery technologies and electrical cell chemistries into the solar-powered drone.
Williams has been the sole battery supplier to the FIA Formula E championship since the electric-powered auto racing circuit started in 2014.