Audi Redirects F1 Powertrain Development to the 2027–28 Program

[Source: The Drive]

Life moves pretty fast in the world of Formula 1. Less than two months ago we reported that the power unit was on track for Audi’s first Formula 1 race in 2026. And now a report from The Drive, states that Audi has already stopped development of the 2026 powertrain and is now focused on the 2027 and 2028 seasons.

No, you didn’t fall asleep and miss the entire 2026 Formula 1 season. The Audi R26 Concept has yet to turn a lap in anger. But Audi has ambitious goals and is looking to compete for championships by 2030. In order to do that, they need to start looking ahead right now.

Focus on 2027 and 2028

“Development of the 2026 powertrain has concluded, and we’re already focusing on 2027 and 2028, Audi F1’s Chief Technology Officer Stefan Dreyer told The Drive. “Development of components truly never stops in Formula 1, but considering the limited amount of data valuable to us from the current Sauber and Ferrari setup [and the 2026 regulation changes], we’re looking past our first year now.”

Why is there not more valuable data available? Audi purchased Sauber, so all of the Sauber data should be available to Audi, right? No. Nearly all of the drivetrain intellectual property belongs strictly to Ferrari, and not a single line of data is shared with Sauber itself. On top of that, the regulation changes for 2026 would make this data of little value anyway.

OK, that makes sense. But how can Audi improve on the 2026 powertrain if it has not been tested on any real tracks yet? The answer is simulation tested and a lot of overtime. The team will be working double-time once the car begins to run on track at the end of January.

The powertrain is being developed in Neuburg, Germany. But with development halted the team is now focused on manufacturing according to Dreyer. That makes sense as the 2026 F1 calendar has 24 planned races, and many spare parts will be required in order to survive the season.

Of course, as important as the powertrain is to a Formula 1 car, there are other components as well. Aerodynamics, suspension, steering and so on are still being developed for the 2026 season. As the season opener inches closer we expect to receive more and more Audi Formula 1 news. Stay tuned as we continue to bring you the latest.