Audi plans to test its F1 engine later this year

Ahead of its entrance into the pinnacle of motorsport in 2026.
Text: Ben Lyons
Published 2023-04-19

We've known for quite a while that Audi would be making an entrance into the world of Formula 1 in 2026, but as that date edges ever closer, the German automotive titan has begun to show the fruits of its labour as it prepares to join the F1 grid.

As detailed at the Auto Shanghai show that is ongoing, Audi revealed an F1 car coated in what it calls its "launch livery", and informed us about how the car manufacturer is preparing to enter into F1 with its own engine.

Oliver Hoffman, member of the board of management for technical development at Audi AG stated: "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."

Hoffman then revealed that the engine Audi has been preparing for F1 will be tested later this year and that the results will form the "basis for the future vehicle concept."

Audi also revealed that the upgrades being made to its facility in Neuberg are ongoing, and that when it is fully completed in early 2024, the facility will be the home of Audi Formula Racing GmbH, its F1 racing division.

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