Audi Completes First Power Unit Fire-Up in 2026 F1 Chassis

Audi has successfully completed the first "fire-up" of its 2026 power unit inside the chassis, marking a critical integration milestone for its Formula 1 debut. The event, which took place in Hinwil, married the new power unit from Neuburg with the Sauber-built chassis, proving that core systems are working together ahead of on-track testing.

Why it matters:

This successful fire-up is a pivotal moment for Audi's ambitious F1 project, demonstrating that the complex integration between the power unit and chassis is on track. It validates the collaboration between the Neuburg power unit division and the Hinwil chassis team, building crucial momentum and confidence as they approach their 2026 debut and the long-term goal of fighting for championships by 2030.

The details:

• The first fire-up of the 1.6-liter V6 turbo-hybrid power unit occurred on December 19, 2025, at the Sauber facility in Hinwil, Switzerland.
• The event marked the first time the power unit, developed in Neuburg, Germany, was mated with the chassis built by the Sauber team in Hinwil.
• Engineers tested not just ignition but the full integration of core systems, including electronics, cooling, and the connection to the gearbox and control units.
• Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley called the success a clear sign that the project is maintaining its ambitious schedule. Head of Audi F1, Mattia Binotto, labeled it a "very special" moment and the "tangible result of our joint efforts."

What's next:

Despite an official livery presentation scheduled for January 20 in Berlin, reports suggest Audi will conduct a private rollout at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya as early as January 9.

• The team will then participate in three official pre-season test sessions: a private test in Barcelona (Jan 26-30) followed by two public tests in Bahrain (Feb 11-13 and Feb 18-20).
• Audi will compete in silver, red, and black colors, positioning itself as a "second Silver Arrow" from Germany, but with the four rings instead of the three-pointed star.