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General Motors Secures Formula 1 Engine Supplier Status for 2029

General Motors (GM) has officially been granted approval to serve as an engine supplier for Formula 1, a significant move for the American automobile manufacturer set to enhance its presence in the motorsport arena. The Cadillac F1 team, which GM introduced to the racing scene, will begin competing on the grid in 2026, utilizing Ferrari engines initially before transitioning to their own power units starting in 2029.

The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the governing body of Formula 1, has confirmed GM Performance Power Units LLC as a power unit supplier. This announcement follows closely on the heels of the Cadillac team’s approval to join Formula 1, highlighting GM’s commitment to achieving a foothold in this prestigious racing series.

During its first three competitive seasons, the Cadillac team will rely on engines sourced from Ferrari. Following this initial period, GM will introduce its own manufactured engines to meet the competition standards set for the 2029 season. Russ O’Blenes, CEO of GM Performance Power Units LLC, expressed enthusiasm about this new chapter, stating that the FIA’s approval will accelerate their plans to bring American-made power units to Formula 1.

Russ O’Blenes, CEO of GM Performance Power Units LLC

Photo by: General Motors

Engine development is underway through a partnership between General Motors and TWG Motorsports, the organization behind Andretti Global. This collaboration will establish a specialized facility dedicated to developing the new engine technologies in proximity to GM’s Charlotte Technical Center in North Carolina next year, further enhancing GM’s capabilities in motorsport.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem commented on this development, noting that GM’s entry as a power unit supplier represents a vital step in the global expansion of Formula 1. This partnership signifies the increasing engagement of noteworthy automotive manufacturers in the sport, affirming that their commitment to innovation and sustainability resonates with the FIA’s vision for motorsport’s future.

Ben Sulayem emphasized that welcoming new manufacturers is essential for making motorsport more inclusive and accessible. He highlighted the importance of advancing automotive technology and appealing to a more diverse audience of motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.

As General Motors prepares to enter the Formula 1 grid, it will go head-to-head with established automotive titans, including Ferrari, Mercedes, Audi, and Red Bull, which is currently collaborating with Ford on its engine program. This competitive landscape is set to become even more dynamic with GM’s anticipated participation, ushering in a new era of American ingenuity in Formula 1 racing.

Source
www.autosport.com