Williams will use Mercedes’ gearboxes and other related hydraulic components from 2022 after strengthening its Formula 1 ties with the manufacturer.
Williams has been powered by Mercedes in Formula 1 since 2014 and in 2019 extended its partnership with the outfit through 2025.
The team has fielded Mercedes-backed George Russell as part of its driver line-up for the last two years.
Williams says the decision to take on Mercedes’ gearboxes and hydraulics from 2022 will enable the team to “implement a more efficient design and manufacturing process in-house long-term” and focus its resources in other performance areas.
It will continue to design and manufacture other chassis parts internally.
“I’m pleased to see our great relationship with Mercedes extend beyond the supply of engines,” said Williams team boss Simon Roberts.
“Williams is an independent team, but Formula 1 is always evolving, and as a team we must be agile to react to the current climate in order to put the team in the best position to be competitive on track.
“This long-term agreement with Mercedes is a positive step and forms part of our strategic objectives for the future whilst we will still retain our design and manufacturing capabilities in-house.”
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff added that “for Williams, it makes sense to acquire the integrated powertrain after running our power units since 2014 and for our team, it makes sense in terms of economies of scale to supply another team under the new rules.
“This is a project we have been discussing with Williams for some time and I am glad we have been able to bring this extension to fruition.”
Williams is entering the first full season under its new ownership following the acquisition of the family-run team by Dorilton Capital in August 2019.
It has finished at the rear of the Constructors’ Championship for the last three years but displayed an upturn in performance through 2020.
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