2026 Audi F1 Showcar at Auto Shanghai

Sauber to Utilize Renewable-Powered Audi Engines

Back in August of 2022, Audi announced their plan to join Formula 1 as a motor provider starting from the 2026 season. A few months after, the German luxury auto manufacturer, part of the Volkswagen Group, struck a deal with Sauber. This January, the company additionally gained a minor shareholding within the Swiss F1 group. Later this month, a showcar representing their venture will be on display at Auto Shanghai 2023, revealing more information about the F1 team’s entry.

A representative of the Four Rings revealed particulars in an interview with Automotive News Europe. Explaining why Auto Shanghai was chosen as the location to showcase the new F1 concept car, they cited China being their biggest target market. Additionally, they noted that F1 has a widespread fanbase within the PRC.

The inclusion of a motorcar in mainland China will be quite warmly welcomed by supporters due to the numerous cancellations of the Chinese Grand Prix that were brought about by the Coronavirus pandemic. The Auto Shanghai show of 2023 is planned to commence on April 18, with the initial press day, and conclude on April 27, with the concluding public day.

Although it is still quite a few years away, two noteworthy enhancements have already been disclosed. Instead of running on renewable ethanol as they are at present (which makes up just 10% of the fuel mix), Formula 1 cars of the future will make use of artificial fuel entirely. Furthermore, the turbocharged V6 motors will stay on; however, the electric power component could make up to half of the total energy production. Additionally, the FIA World Motor Sport Council is advertising decreased operation expenses in order to pull in entrants to the sport – something which has already happened with Sauber/Audi and Red Bull/Ford.

Porsche exhibited its intent to join Formula 1, though negotiations with Red Bull did not come to fruition last year. Their proposition for a 50:50 split was declined by the German carmaker. Despite not succeeding in their endeavors with Red Bull, Porsche communicated in October 2022 that they remain eager to takeover the topmost automobile racing series.

Despite a current report published by The Race, it does not seem that Porsche will be part of the grid in 2026. It has already been made clear that the German company expresses an interest but it appears that it won’t occur for the foreseeable future.

Sources: Automotive News Europe, The Race