TWG Motorsports, the driving force behind the Andretti-born F1 team set to race under the Cadillac banner in 2026, has joined forces with General Motors to develop the US outfit's future in-house power unit.
The partnership establishes a new dedicated entity – GM Performance Power Units LLC – that will supply Cadillac with its future F1 engine after it concludes its initial supply deal with Ferrari.
The move solidifies the new team's long-term commitment to competing at the highest level of motorsport and represents a bold step in GM's foray into Formula 1.
Furthermore, the venture also underscores Cadillac's ambition to transition from a customer team to a works team by the end of the decade.
Leadership at the Helm
Russ O'Blenes, a seasoned GM executive with an impressive track record in engine development, has been named CEO of GM Performance Power Units LLC.
O'Blenes previously led the development of hybrid engines for Cadillac's IMSA program and Corvette's C8.R, both of which have enjoyed significant success.
The announcement resonates with excitement and strategic intent. Dan Towriss, TWG CEO, emphasizes the importance of the new leadership.
Russ O'Blenes, CEO of GM Performance Power Units LLC
“We're delighted to welcome Russ to this pivotal role,” commented Towriss.
“His expertise and leadership will be instrumental as we lay the foundation for Cadillac's F1 journey.
“Together with team principal Graeme Lowdon, they will lead the team in setting new standards of performance and innovation in the sport.”
GM President Mark Reuss underscored the significance of this move for GM's global presence.
“Russ brings vast experience from many championship racing series, and has outstanding technical expertise, including spearheading our hybrid IMSA Cadillac and Corvette C8.R engines that are proven winners.
“In F1, we're going to demonstrate GM's engineering and technology capabilities on a global stage, and Russ is the right choice to lead the power unit team that will make it happen.”
Building a State-of-the-Art Facility
GM PPU will construct a new facility near the manufacturer's technical center in Charlotte, North Carolina, and begin operations in 2026.
This strategic location facilitates close collaboration and streamlined development.
O'Blenes expressed his enthusiasm for the task ahead.
“I am truly excited to have the opportunity to build and lead the team that will bring an American built F1 power unit to the grid,” he said.
“GM PPU is currently ramping up its team and is hiring in all areas of the business.”
Transitioning from Ferrari Power
Cadillac's current arrangement with Ferrari, initially expected to conclude before the 2028 season, now has a potential extension.
Also, while the Ferrari deal ensures a strong start for the team, the establishment of GM PPU signals Cadillac's clear intention to become a competitive and self-sufficient force in Formula 1.
Therefore, it's a commitment not just to participate, but to engineer, innovate, and ultimately, compete at the highest echelons of motorsport with its own homegrown power.
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