Williams Advanced Engineering Unveils EVR Electric Hypercar Platform

Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE) has revealed its new EVR platform, designed to make producing high-performance EVs quicker and easier for OEMs and startups. 

Unveiled at the Low Carbon Vehicle Show, WAE says the platform "enables brands to launch unique high-performance electric vehicles based on a state-of-the-art yet cost-effective platform." 

EVR is the latest version of WAE's EV platform and features a lightweight composite structure with batteries mounted in the middle of the vehicle, for better weight distribution and an improved centre of gravity. 

WAE says that the platform can support a range of electric hypercar configurations, from track-only vehicles where power-to-weight is maximised to roadgoing models, both open-roof Targa and fixed-roof GT architectures.

“EVR combines WAE’s exceptional expertise in motorsport-bred lightweight, composite structures and high-performance battery powertrains with our knowledge in developing and delivering electric vehicle programmes. It rapidly accelerates high-performance electrification offering a turnkey solution for both start-ups and OEMs with an affordable business case, reduced time to market and a highly flexible architecture," says Paul McNamara, WAE's Technical Director.

The company also promises some impressive performance numbers. Powered by an 85 kWh battery, the EVR platform can deliver a peak power of 1,650 kW (around 2,200 horsepower) with a top speed of more than 400 kph. 0-100 kph sprints are dispatched in less than two seconds and the whole package should weigh less than 1,800 kilos. 

The EVR can be charged in less than 20 minutes and can manage a range of more than 450 km. All-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive layouts are supported, as well. 

WAE is targeting the delivery of the first EVR-based prototypes within 12 months of project kick-off, with the delivery of the first production vehicles within 24 months. EVR is also ready for a hydrogen future with an EVR-H fuel cell variant also being developed to deliver the equivalent performance of a pure BEV platform but powered by green H2.