F1: Audi 2026 F1 engine update

–by Mark Cipolloni–

Speaking at the Auto Shanghai motor show in China, Audi board member for Technical Development, Oliver Hoffmann (shown above) provided a progress update.

“The Audi Formula 1 project has really taken off in recent months,” he explained.

“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.”

The engines will be developed and produced at Audi’s base in Neuberg, which is undergoing an expansion that will see a new 3,000-square-foot facility added specifically for its F1 program.

Audi plans to test its first full hybrid drivetrain unit – encompassing the combustion engine, electric motor, battery and control electronics – before the end of this year, 2.5 years before the power unit actually hits the track in competition.