Williams Advanced Engineering Announces Modular EV Chassis
By Edward A. Sanchez – May 5, 2021
Williams Advanced Engineering has just announced its EVX electric vehicle platform developed in conjunction with Italdesign. The company claims the platform is designed for “premium electric Sports GTs, Crossovers, and sedans.” So more along the lines of the Taycan, e-tron GT, and Lucid Air than the Bolt, ID.3, and Leaf.
The modular platform is designed to accommodate wheelbases from 114 to 122 inches, and can handle up to 1,000 kW (1,341 hp) of power output, or packs large enough to enable a range of up to 1,000 km (621 miles). The platform can be configured for rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. Williams claims the platform can be utilized by established OEMs or EV startups (for a price, of course).
However, the platform is clearly aimed at more niche and boutique brands, with an annual production capacity of 10,000 units, or about as many RAV4s as Toyota sells in a week. For those taking a “bespoke” approach to coachbuilding, Italdesign can accommodate a limited production run of 500 units itself at its facilities.
The Williams modular chassis makes for a flexible base from which to make everything from sports cars to crossovers.
Williams claims the platform extensively utilizes recycled composites and aluminum for a minimal environmental impact. The company claims the platform “sets new standards for static and torsional stiffness.” Considering the company’s history with Formula 1, we have no reason to doubt their claims.
As is the case with many EV designs today, it utilizes the “skateboard” concept with most of the drivetrain, suspension, and battery components being self-contained in the platform, allowing for a custom “top hat” or body of the client’s choice.
Although not specifically spelled out in the release, it is inferred that styling by Italdesign is part of a “package deal,” so anyone looking to just buy the “skateboard” without the “top hat” may be out of luck.
Some other interesting intrigue is that Italdesign is 90% owned by the Volkswagen Group, and Porsche (part of VWAG) has a 24% stake in Croatian EV supercar maker Rimac. Could some of Rimac’s “secret sauce” have made its way to this chassis? Although Williams is entirely independent of the Volkswagen Group, there could conceivably be some knowledge-sharing going on.
Chassis structures mount directly on the carbon composite battery casing, making the battery a structural member.
More choice in the EV space is never a bad thing. Although clearly not a platform or car for the masses, Williams’ platform will definitely enable more creativity in the premium EV space, and if nothing else, give a launching pad to new and established brands wanting to get into the EV space.
(Images courtesy Williams Advanced Engineering)
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