Komatsu brings hydraulic expertise to Williams F1

Construction machinery giant, Komatsu, is set to deepen its involvement in Formula 1, with its hydraulic engineering expertise to play a greater role in the development of future Williams race cars.

The Japanese manufacturer has extended its global partnership with the Atlassian Williams F1 Team beyond 2026 and will become the team’s Official Hydraulic Innovation Partner.

The expanded agreement will see Komatsu engineers work more closely with Williams on technical projects, including the development of components for future Formula 1 cars.

The collaboration draws on Komatsu’s experience developing hydraulic systems and advanced technologies for construction and mining machinery, while giving its engineers exposure to the high-speed development environment of Formula 1.

Komatsu president and CEO, Takuya Imayoshi, said the partnership created opportunities to exchange engineering knowledge and develop new technology.

“Komatsu has always believed that the greatest engineering advances come from tackling complex challenges alongside trusted partners,” he said.

“As we deepen this partnership, we are creating new opportunities to exchange knowledge, develop future engineering talent and accelerate the ideas that will help shape the next generation of technology.”

Komatsu and Williams first worked together during the 1990s, when the manufacturer supplied gear components used in Williams cars that won the 1996 and 1997 Formula 1 World Championships.

The companies renewed their partnership in 2024, with the latest agreement taking the relationship further into engineering and technical development.

The partnership will also continue the Komatsu Williams Engineering Academy, which provides engineering students with mentoring and technical experience, while a new Komatsu Williams Leadership Academy will also be introduced.