Audi has taken its first concrete steps towards its full Formula 1 entry by conducting initial shakedown runs with its 2026-spec power unit at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The German manufacturer, currently operating as Kick Sauber before its full rebranding, deployed drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto for the early running as it prepares for the sport’s sweeping technical regulation changes. Unlike fellow newcomer Cadillac, which will rely on Ferrari power units, Audi has committed to developing its own complete powertrain package for the new era.
Power unit focus drives Barcelona running
The shakedown sessions at the Spanish circuit concentrated primarily on evaluating Audi’s bespoke power unit rather than showcasing the final aerodynamic package. Multiple sources confirmed that the German manufacturer used the opportunity to accumulate crucial data on its self-developed hybrid system, which represents a significant engineering undertaking as Formula 1 transitions to its next generation of technical regulations.
According to reports from Virutas de Goma, the initial running proceeded without major technical issues, marking an encouraging start to Audi’s intensified testing programme. The smooth execution of these early laps suggests the powertrain development has reached a sufficiently mature stage to operate reliably, even at this preliminary phase.
The testing marks the first time any 2026-specification machinery has appeared on track, giving Audi a symbolic head start in the transition to the new regulatory framework. While teams like Ferrari and Mercedes continue refining their own next-generation units, Audi’s visible track presence underscores its commitment to becoming a full works manufacturer rather than simply a customer team.
Full reveal scheduled for Bahrain
The chassis spotted in Barcelona does not represent Audi’s final 2026 configuration. The complete car will be unveiled during pre-season testing in Bahrain this February, when all teams converge for the official track sessions ahead of the season opener. Before that public debut, Audi has scheduled private testing behind closed doors in late January, allowing the team to refine systems and address any emerging issues away from competitor scrutiny.
This phased approach aligns with standard practice for major technical transitions. Teams typically conduct preliminary shakedowns to validate fundamental systems before committing to the full development programme. For Audi, ensuring the power unit operates reliably forms the foundation upon which aerodynamic and chassis development will build.
Strategic divergence from Cadillac approach
Audi’s decision to manufacture its own power unit distinguishes its Formula 1 project from Cadillac’s entry strategy. While the American brand elected to secure a proven Ferrari powertrain, allowing it to focus resources on chassis development and team infrastructure, Audi has embraced the full complexity of becoming a works manufacturer. This route demands significantly greater investment but offers complete control over performance development and strategic direction.
The works power unit approach reflects Audi’s broader motorsport philosophy and technical ambitions within the Volkswagen Group. By developing its own hybrid system, Audi positions itself to potentially supply customer teams in future seasons, creating additional revenue streams and technical partnerships that pure chassis constructors cannot access.
What this means going forward
The successful completion of initial shakedown running provides Audi with valuable baseline data as development accelerates through January and February. The private testing session later this month will prove critical for identifying any fundamental issues before the Bahrain public debut, where performance will be scrutinized against established manufacturers.
For Hülkenberg and Bortoleto, the Barcelona running offered their first experience with the 2026 power unit characteristics, beginning the crucial adaptation process to significantly different power delivery and energy management compared to current machinery. As February approaches, attention will shift to how Audi’s complete package compares to rival efforts from Ferrari, Mercedes, Red Bull, and the other manufacturers entering Formula 1’s new technical era.
