Nico Hulkenberg, the renowned Formula 1 driver, is buzzing with excitement following his recent visit to Audi’s F1 project headquarters in Neuburg. Set to lead the Audi factory team in 2026, Hulkenberg expressed his admiration for the progress on Audi’s 2026 hybrid power unit.
As Hulkenberg signed with Sauber in 2024 before their transformation into an Audi factory team, he was given an exclusive tour of the facility by Audi Formula Racing CEO Adam Baker and Chief Technical Officer Stefan Dreyer. A sense of awe accompanied Hulkenberg’s comments, as he praised Audi’s dedication to the F1 project and highlighted the precision and passion of the team members developing the power unit.
The Competence Center Motorsport in Neuburg plays a crucial role in Audi’s F1 efforts, with a sprawling 3,000 square meter facility dedicated to engine development. Recent updates indicate Audi has achieved significant milestones, successfully simulating race distances on dyno tests.
CEO Adam Baker commended the integration efforts of the team, uniting components of the power unit seamlessly. The in-house development includes the energy recovery system, electric motor, battery, combustion engine, and transmission, reflecting Audi’s F1 ambitions.
While the power unit nears completion in Neuburg, chassis development progresses in Hinwil, Switzerland, utilizing Sauber’s infrastructure. This synergy propels Audi’s F1 project forward, with Hulkenberg at the helm, eagerly anticipating future successes.
With groundbreaking advancements and a stellar team driving the project, Audi’s entry into Formula 1 under Hulkenberg’s leadership promises to make a significant impact in the motorsport arena. The collaboration and innovation on display in Neuburg and Hinwil offer a glimpse into an exciting future as Audi prepares to take on the F1 circuit in 2026.
