Audi reports F1 project has ‘really taken off’ as it begins engine development

Audi has provided an update of its Formula 1 programme revealing it plans to run a complete hybrid power unit by the end of 2023.

The German manufacturer is ramping up preparations for its arrival on the F1 grid in 2026 after acquiring a majority stake in Sauber.

The investment will see Audi take over Sauber’s F1 team and develop its own works engine for the new power unit regulations that come into force in 2026.

F1’s next engine rules cycle will rely heavily around the introduction of greater electrical power and sustainable fuels, as well as ditching the MGU-H.

Delivering an update at the Auto Shanghai motor show, Audi revealed it had tested a single-cylinder engine from the end of 2022 to act as a baseline for its test bench set-up.

Before the end of this year, Audi is aiming to run a “full hybrid drivetrain unit, consisting of the combustion engine, electric motor, battery and electronic control unit” on the test bench that “will form the basis for the future vehicle concept”.

Speaking about the latest developments of Audi’s F1 project, technical head Oliver Hoffmann said, as quoted by Motorsport.com: “The Audi Formula 1 project has really taken off in recent months.

“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, these approaches will advance both worlds.”

Audi also hopes to have finished its recruitment drive by the end of the year, with the objective of having over 300 personnel on board.

Audi’s expansion of its engine facility in Neuburg means it has already hired 260 staff and promises its team will feature a mix of “Formula 1 expertise” and existing, high-profile Audi employees from its previous motorsport programmes.

“We are convinced that our Formula 1 commitment will strengthen Audi’s sporting focus,” said Audi board chair Markus Duesmann.

“The racing series is continuously increasing its global reach, especially among young target groups and in our most important sales market: China.”