Hulkenberg ‘excited by the progress’ after Audi engine factory tour

Nico Hulkenberg recently took time after the Chinese Grand Prix to visit Audi’s burgeoning F1 engine factory in Neuburg, Germany, offering the seasoned driver a firsthand look at the manufacturer’s preparations for its highly anticipated F1 debut in 2026.

The trip marked a significant moment for Hulkenberg, who will spearhead Audi’s charge into the sport alongside young talent Gabriel Bortoleto following the company’s takeover of the Sauber team.

At Neuburg, Hulkenberg immersed himself in the development process of Audi’s in-house powertrain, a critical component of their ambitious motorsport endeavor.

A Glimpse into Audi’s F1 Ambitions

The visit provided Hulkenberg with a comprehensive tour of the facilities, guided by key figures Adam Baker and Stefan Dreyer, and a chance to engage with the team driving Audi’s F1 project forward.

Reflecting on his experience, the Sauber charger was impressed with what he saw and shared his enthusiasm.

“I am impressed by what I have seen. The facility demonstrates how seriously Audi takes F1,” he said in a story published on Linkedin. 

“Everything Audi has done in motorsport has been executed with precision. After Adam [Baker] and Stefan [Dryer] gave me a tour of the factory, I am excited by the progress the team has made on the 2026 power unit.”

His comments underscore the confidence he feels in Audi’s ability to deliver a competitive package when they hit the grid.

Hulkenberg’s excitement extended beyond the technical advancements to the human element of the project.

“It was a pleasure to talk to the people in Neuburg and feel their passion,” he said. “They are all working tirelessly and with dedication to make this project a success.

“I’m proud to be a part of this journey and excited for the years ahead.”

His words reflect a sense of pride and optimism as he prepares to play a pivotal role in Audi’s F1 journey, bridging his extensive experience with the team’s fresh ambitions.

The Heart of Audi’s Motorsport Legacy

The Neuburg facility, known as the Competence Center Motorsport, is no stranger to success. Home to over 400 staff, it has been the cradle of Audi’s motorsport triumphs for over a decade, producing race-winning machines for series like LMP1 in the World Endurance Championship, DTM, Formula E, and the Dakar Rally.

In 2022, the site underwent a significant expansion, with a new 3,000-square-meter building added specifically to accommodate the F1 project.

Consequently, the state-of-the-art hub will be the birthplace of Audi’s 2026 power unit, while the chassis development will occur at Sauber’s established base in Hinwil, Switzerland, creating a dual-pronged approach to their F1 entry.

Audi’s Stance on V10 Engine Proposals

Amidst the buzz of their 2026 preparations, Audi recently voiced its opposition to a potential shift in F1’s technical direction being floated by the FIA and Formula 1.

Discussions have emerged about reintroducing V10 engines, possibly as early as 2028, powered by sustainable fuels, which would mark a departure from the turbo hybrid regulations set for 2026.

Audi has emphasized that the upcoming hybrid power unit rules were a cornerstone of their decision to enter F1, aligning with their road car technology and sustainability goals.

This stance pits them against teams like Ferrari and Red Bull, who reportedly favor the V10 concept, highlighting a broader debate about the sport’s future.

For now, Audi remains committed to the 2026 framework, a position that Hulkenberg’s visit reinforces as he witnessed the tangible progress on their hybrid power unit.

• Read also: Audi slams brakes on F1’s V10 revival push

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