In May 2022, Volkswagen Group confirmed that Audi and Porsche would join Formula 1 championship. Formula 1 will see regulation changes for the 2026 season, and the two brands will take advantage of it. Hence, we knew the two were coming, but we were in for an early surprise. Audi Sport has now confirmed its entry into the 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship. But the surprise was that the brand revealed its single-seater concept and a few details about the hybrid powertrain it will use. The brand also mentioned it will reveal which team they will be lining up with by the end of 2022.
Upcoming Regulation Changes In Formula 1
One of the reasons for Audi entering into Formula 1 is because it plans to become more sustainable and cost-efficient. The new technical rules which will come into effect in 2026 will focus on greater electrification and advanced sustainable fuel. Furthermore, along with the existing cap on costs for teams, a cost cap for power unit manufacturers will come in place from 2023. These restrictions make it easier for companies to enter Formula 1 by lowering the needed R&D costs. Additionally, Formula 1 aims to become a carbon-neutral racing series by 2030.
Concept & Livery Revealed
Since the single-seater design for the 2026 design is yet to be finalized, the concept is a mockup to showcase Audi’s launch livery. The single-seater concept features typical Audi Sport colours – red, silver, black and white graphics. Meanwhile, the four-ring logo is present on the swan-neck rear wing, the side and more. The aerodynamic package of the concept looks similar to the cars from the 2022 season of Formula 1 and comes with an integrated halo and Pirelli tyres.
Additional Details & Powertrain
The announcement included some new details about the brand’s Formula 1 entry. Audi Sport’s facility in Neuburg a der Donau, Germany, will be responsible for developing the new hybrid powertrain for the racecar. Adam Baker, an ex-FIA engineer, will be the CEO of the new entity Audi will create for its Formula 1 project. One of the board members responsible for technical development also revealed that the Formula 1 project will work closely with Audi AG’s Technical Development department.
The new powertrain will rely heavily on electrification as well as sustainable fuels. Thus, helping Formula 1 with its aim to become a carbon-neutral sport by 2030. The powertrain unit will comprise a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, an electric motor, battery and control electronics. The ICE unit will churn out close to 544 PS of power. The electric motor will also be nearly as powerful.
Motorsport Department Restructuring
At the press conference at the Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix, Audi also announced its restructuring of the motorsport department. As a part of this, Rolf Michl will replace Julius Seebach as the CEO of Audi Sport from 1st September 2022. Julius Seebach will move to a new strategic business in the brand’s technical development department. Meanwhile, Audi is promoting Rolf Michl from his former role as COO.
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