WAE Technologies, formerly known as Williams Advanced Engineering, has announced the appointment of Claire Williams as its first-ever brand ambassador.
Williams was involved in establishing the technology and engineering services business when the Williams F1 team decided to branch out in 2010. Back then, the late Frank Williams was still in charge, but the team was already on a downward spiral since its last Constructors' title in 1997 as Williams Renault. Sir Frank knew that things evolved rapidly in F1 and opted to commercialize ground-breaking technology developed by Williams F1.
One of Williams Advanced Engineering's first car-related projects was helping make the Jaguar C-X75 hybrid hypercar a reality. That, unfortunately, never made it to production, but at least some design cues made it to the production Jaguar F-Type.
Claire Williams took over as team principal in 2013 and ran the company until 2020, when the F1 team was sold to an American private investment company, Dorilton Capital.
Williams doesn't get nearly enough credit for her time in Formula 1. Under her stewardship, Williams Mercedes finished third place in 2014 and 2015. She's one of only two female F1 bosses in history, the other being Monisha Kaltenborn, who ran Sauber from January 2010 until 22 June 2017.
Following Williams F1's purchase, Williams Advanced Engineering changed its name to WAE Technologies. It nearly went under but was saved by Fortescue and has turned its eye to developing forward-thinking EV platforms for small-volume manufacturers, including a 248-mph turnkey EV hypercar platform, as revealed last year. Claire Williams now returns with all her knowledge to help WAE on its new mission to help decarbonize the heavy transport industry.
"I am hugely honored to be taking up this new role with WAE Technologies," said Claire Williams, OBE. "What Craig and the team have achieved in a relatively short time frame has been phenomenal; using race-bred technology to revolutionize industries across the world. Sustainability has always been at the core of the business, and for me personally, I am committed to maximizing technology for the benefit of all to create a greener tomorrow."
WAE Technologies CEO Craig Wilson was full of praise for Williams' achievements and how they may benefit WAE. "Claire's experience in motorsport, combined with her understanding of the benefits of race-bred technology transfer make her very well placed to support our future plans. As we enter an exciting new phase under Fortescue's ownership, she will bring enormous value in raising the profile of our collective goal of making the world a greener place."