Audi F1 boss Mattia Binotto has admitted there have been “tense moments” in the company during its journey to build its own power unit.
The German manufacturer will join the grid next year, taking over the Sauber-run squad that has operated under the Stake moniker across the last two seasons.
Audi announced its plans to join the grid almost four years ago and has undergone major personnel changes ever since.
This includes the appointment of Binotto to the head of the project, who was formerly the team principal of Ferrari during a challenging on-track period for the Italian squad.
Audi's commitment to the sport included the construction of its own power unit - a decision that has not come without its difficulties.
"The challenge is big," Binotto told F1.com. "The power unit is a complex and difficult matter.
“The development of the power unit takes time, it takes longer than the chassis and aero. The team started years ago to develop the power unit and it's running well on the dyno.
“But for us it will be a long journey, and there will be much we need to learn, but we are all excited.
"On the dyno, we are running through reliability at the moment, ensuring reliability will be alright for the start of the season. There are some tense moments in Neuberg – but that's the challenge."
Audi stated earlier this week at a launch event that it is targeting to fight for a world championship by the 2030 season.
While Binotto highlighted the challenge of building its own engine, he said it is only one of many trials a team must overcome if it wishes to be champions.
"I think the power unit challenge is difficult, but to become world champion, to become the best car on track, all the challenges are tricky,” he said.
“I don't think you can select one or the other being the most difficult. But for a new manufacturer, certainly it's not easy."
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