General Motors has confirmed its ambitious entry into Formula 1, aiming to establish its presence in the championship under the luxury Cadillac brand. To achieve this, GM has founded a new company dedicated to Power Units, named GM Performance Power Units, which will spearhead the development of Cadillac F1 engines.
The project involves collaboration with the U.S.-based TWG Global group, starting with the Cadillac team’s debut in 2026. However, Cadillac will initially use engines supplied by Ferrari while GM works on its own power unit. “We will set Cadillac on the path to becoming a full-fledged constructor by the end of the decade,” reads the official statement.
To expedite this process, prototype engine testing has already begun at GM’s technical center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Additionally, a facility dedicated to the F1 program is planned to open by 2026.
Leadership of the Cadillac Power Unit program
Heading GM Performance Power Units will be Russ O’Blenes, an engineer with extensive motorsport experience and a background leading hybrid engines for Cadillac IMSA and the Corvette C8.R. “Russ brings extraordinary technical expertise,” said GM President Mark Reuss. “In F1, we will showcase GM’s engineering and technological capabilities on a global stage, and Russ is the right choice to lead the engine team making it possible.”
Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports, also praised O’Blenes: “We are thrilled to welcome him to this pivotal role. His experience and leadership will be essential in laying the groundwork for Cadillac’s journey in F1.”
GM enters Formula 1 at a time of significant change, with new engine regulations set for 2026. These will increase the hybrid component’s power contribution to 50% and mandate the use of sustainable zero-emission fuels. The American giant will join manufacturers like Ford and Audi, challenging current powerhouses such as Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda.
With this move, GM aims to solidify its reputation as a leader in automotive innovation, bringing Cadillac’s prestige to one of the most celebrated stages in global sports.
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