Komatsu and Atlassian Williams Racing: Driving innovation for a thriving future

At Komatsu, our journey is rooted in building machines that answer the needs of society, a purpose that guides our every endeavor. Our partnership with Atlassian Williams Racing is a powerful extension of this commitment, showcasing how a shared vision can unite seemingly different worlds to create something truly significant. It’s more than just a logo on an elite race car; it’s a shared belief in pushing the limits of engineering to build a better tomorrow, together.

When we consider the Komatsu WE1850-3 mining wheel loader and the lightning-fast Williams FW47 F1 car, we find profound connections. Both machines, designed for vastly different demands — one to master the most challenging mining environments, the other to achieve split-second victories on the track — embody a passion for innovation. At the heart of this shared spirit lies advanced hybrid technology, specifically sophisticated regenerative braking systems. 

This technology — known as Kinetic Energy Recovery Systems or KERS  and kinetic energy storage system or KESS —  involves a powerful set-up that captures kinetic energy normally lost as heat during braking. This captured energy is stored for later use. It’s an innovation that represents an important value Komatsu and Williams share: the passion to push the limits of engineering within their fields.

This shared commitment to technological advancement is also a commitment to our people and the planet. By harnessing these innovative hybrid systems, both Komatsu and Atlassian Williams Racing are actively reducing fuel consumption and emissions, leading the way toward a more sustainable future. This deliberate approach not only optimizes performance but also ensures a world where people, businesses and our planet can thrive together for generations to come. It underscores our belief that through collaboration and a challenging spirit, we empower others and pave the way for a lasting impact.

To delve deeper into the technology that unites us, watch this video to hear Williams Team Principal James Vowles explain the intricacies of these hybrid systems and our shared vision for innovation.