General Motors Confirms Place as F1 Power Unit Manufacturer

Alex Harrington | Nov 25, 2024

Nov 23, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Mercedes AMG Petronas driver George Russell (63) drives for position against Scuderia Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc (16) during the Las Vegas Grand Prix at Las Vegas Circuit. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

General Motors has confirmed its commitment to entering the Formula 1 scene as a power unit manufacturer, marking a significant development for the motorsport world. With Cadillac, a GM subsidiary, set to compete in the Formula 1 championship by 2026, this announcement places the American automotive giant firmly into global motorsport.

The ambitious timeline outlined by GM shows that Cadillac will initially not supply its own engines but aims to evolve into a full works team by the decade's end.

Mark Reuss, President of GM, expressed the company’s enthusiasm: “We are thrilled that our new Cadillac Formula 1 Team entry will be powered by a GM power unit.

“With our deep engineering and racing expertise, we’re confident we’ll develop a successful power unit for the series, and position Cadillac as a true works team.

“We will run with the very best, at the highest levels, with passion and integrity that will help elevate the sport for race fans around the world.”

Historically, GM has demonstrated its engineering competence across various motorsport disciplines, notably with Cadillac's prominent presence in the IMSA GTP and FIA World Endurance Championship Hypercar classes. This varied experience lays a strong foundation for GM's venture into Formula 1, which will involve substantial technical developments.

GM is already testing a prototype power unit.

“Engineering a F1 power unit will advance GM’s expertise in areas including electrification, hybrid technology, sustainable fuels, high efficiency internal combustion engines, advanced controls and software systems,” a statement from the manufacturer reveals.

The prospects of Cadillac joining the F1 grid stand to infuse the series with an American flair, being the first new team to join the grid since 2016. This comes at a time when Formula 1 is increasingly looking to expand its global appeal, which an iconic American brand can accentuate. However, this entry does not come without challenges.

The integration of a new team faces resistance from existing teams concerned about revenue distribution and the potential destabilization of the sport's current balance. Despite these challenges, support from key figures, such as FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, shows a positive outlook held by parts of the F1 community who see value in involving American entities like Andretti and GM.

As these developments unfold, the future of GM and Cadillac’s Formula 1 ambitions promises to be compelling. If successful, it could reshape the landscape of F1 and solidify a new era for American involvement in the sport.

“We will run with the very best, at the highest levels, with passion and integrity that will help elevate the sport for race fans around the world," Reuss said.