Audi release plans to test their new F1 engine
Audi showcase at the 20th Shanghai International Industry Exhibition (Image: Getty Images)
Audi have revealed that they have been busy preparing for their entry into Formula 1 and have just completed a presentation at the Auto Shanghai exhibition, with stakeholders in attendance.
It was at last year’s Belgian Grand Prix that Audi announced that they would be joining the sport in 2026 when the new regulations will come into effect. These regulations will affect engines and will feature increased electrical power and 100% sustainable fuels.
The German manufacturer has since released their plans on how they will partner with Sauber, who currently races as Alfa Romeo and use Ferrari power units, and convert them into the official Audi work outfit that will use their power units.
Audi has recently travelled to China to showcase their project to the markets in Asia, with the already revealed showcase livery and presenting their motto which is: “F1 Power made in Germany”.
Audi also has plans to upgrade its already functional development simulator to F1 standards while also making sure the rest of its outfit, power unit, and team are continually updating to be prepared for their inaugural year in Formula 1.
In a press release, Audi declared that their first full hybrid drivetrain unit which is made up of a combustion engine, electric motor, battery, and electronic control unit is planned to be tested before the end of the year, this will be the first sign of their potential within the sport.
Stefano Domenicali, Mohammad Ben Sulayem, Oliver Hoffman, and Markus Duesmann at Audi’s announcement of entry to Formula One at the Belgian Grand Prix 2022 (Image: GettyImages)
Furthermore, Audi has created a new division within the team named “Audi Formula Racing GMbH” which already has over 260 specialists, with the main part of the development team holding experienced Audi Sport and Audi employees who have valuable knowledge in electric motorsport.
Employees that are already part of the team are going to join forces with Formula One specialists who were hired from out with the team to help them improve and adapt to joining the F1 grid. Audi is estimating that hiring would be finished by the end of the year with staff numbers being more than 300.
Audi’s Competence Center Motorsport will also receive upgrades such as the installation of additional test rigs in a brand new building, they will be able to operate these facilities before the full build is finished in early 2024.
Markus Duesman, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, said: “Motorsport is an integral part of our DNA.
“We are convinced that our Formula 1 commitment will strengthen Audi’s sporting focus. The racing series is continuously increasing its global reach, especially among young target groups and in our most important sales market: China.”
Oliver Hoffmann, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development at AUDI AG, continued by stating: “In the ongoing concept phase of the power unit, the foundation of our drivetrain for 2026 is being laid today.
“We attach great importance to detail work, for example on materials or manufacturing technologies, and we also focus on topics such as the energy management of the hybrid drivetrain.
“After all, efficiency is a key success factor for Formula 1 and the mobility of the future, and these approaches will advance both worlds.”