WILLIAMS ADVANCED ENGINEERING, DOUG CAMPLING, EVERYTHING EV PODCAST

EV Channels Review

This episode of the Everything EV podcast features Doug Campling, Head of Motorsport at Williams Advanced Engineering, offering a deep dive into the evolving landscape of electric motorsport. Campling, with extensive experience dating back to the introduction of KERS in Formula 1, provides valuable insights into the engineering challenges and advancements in electrification. The discussion highlights Williams Advanced Engineering's significant role, from developing the KERS system to leading battery design for Formula E's Generation 1 cars and their current involvement in Generation 3. The podcast touches upon various electric racing series, including Extreme E, ETCR, and the LMDh program, emphasizing the distinct technological demands of different applications, from energy conservation in Formula E to hybrid systems in endurance racing. Campling addresses skepticism towards electric motorsport by sharing his son's perspective, who grew up with both Formula 1 and Formula E as equally valid forms of racing. A key takeaway is the engineering feasibility of EVs competing with ICE counterparts in certain formats, like rallycross, while acknowledging the significant challenges in endurance racing due to battery energy density limitations. The primary challenge for Williams Advanced Engineering, as stated by Campling, is managing the sheer breadth and number of exciting projects currently underway.