Williams to supply gearboxes to HRT

The move will see the Spanish squad leave Xtrac to use the gearbox produced by the Grove-based squad.

Williams said the deal will extend for the life-cycle of the current Cosworth engine technology.

Both teams are currently using Cosworth engines.

"This is a logical partnership given Williams and Hispania's mutual relationship with Cosworth," said Williams's CEO Alex Burns.

"Our gearbox technology has consistently proven itself as both competitive and reliable, and hence this agreement will be a positive development for both organisations."

HRT team boss Colin Kolles added: "This technical partnership is a significant step forward for Hispania Racing HRT F1 Team to improve its performance.

"We are very happy to do this with an engineering company and race team like Williams F1 which has an impressive track record and astonishing heritage."

Hispania made its Formula 1 debut this season, but has struggled at the back of the field as the development of its car has been minimal throughout the year.

The Williams deal, however, will be a boost for the team, which endured a lot of problems with hydraulics at the start of the season.