Audi reveals where it is 'on a par' with F1 rivals

The Audi Formula 1 squad has detailed an area it is “on a par” with existing teams ahead of its scheduled arrival on the grid in 2026.

The German manufacturer will take over the Stake F1 outfit and run its own power units when the sport enters a new era of technical regulations.

It has invested heavily in the project as it looks to begin its venture on the grid on a strong foot.

With F1 currently operating under a strict budget cap, Audi highlighted its ability to run at the the $95 million power unit limit shows its immediate ability to match current manufacturers.

“Like all other Formula 1 teams and power unit manufacturers, we were faced with the challenge of setting ourselves up accordingly. It’s all about cost-cap efficiency and cost-cap conformity,” said Audi Formula Racing CEO Adam Baker.

“One advantage was that we were able to start on a blank sheet of paper, so to speak, creating our own company, Audi Formula Racing GmbH, for the project. 

“We had a clear picture of structures, systems, processes and the right mindset right from the start. The topic of finance has a direct impact on performance due to the cost cap. 

“There has never been such a direct link between operational efficiency and sporting success in Formula 1. The fact that we can operate at the limit of the cost cap with PU development puts us on a par with our competitors.”

Audi looking to next development stage

With the Audi engine project up and running for over two years now, its initial power unit has already covered simulated race distances on the test bench.

The team has highlighted that “significant milestones” have been achieved as it eyes the next phase of development.

“We implemented a very ambitious modernization and expansion of our test facility,” said Audi F1 managing director Stefan Dreyer, below left with Baker below right.

“Today, we have 22 state-of-the-art test benches at the site. 

“Our new development tools are state-of-the-art and have enabled us to achieve a steep learning curve. By testing on the test bench under simulated racing conditions we gain important insights in this phase of the project.

“After the successful race distances with the power unit we will soon be doing the same with the entire drive system, which means the combination of Power Unit and transmission. 

“At the same time, we are going full throttle with performance development in order to achieve the goals we have set ourselves.”