Cadillac Is Creating Its Own Engine for Formula 1

General Motors is officially getting into Formula 1 with TWG Motorsports, under their luxury car brand Cadillac. Just last week, GM announced that it has plans to formulate a new company specific to building powertrains for this new Cadillac F1 project.

According to the press release, GM has named Russ O’Blenes as the new division’s CEO. The latest venture will see GM Performance Power Units LLC contribute to the project by offering a “full works” team for Cadillac to explore this new motor racing experience. With over 30 years of experience, O’Blenes is currently director of the GM Motorsports Propulsion and Performance team. Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports said of O’Blenes, “We’re delighted to welcome Russ to this pivotal role. His expertise and leadership will be instrumental as we lay the foundation for Cadillac’s Formula 1 journey. Together with Team Principal Graeme Lowdon, they will lead the team in setting new standards of performance and innovation in the sport.”

In O’Blenes’ statement, he added “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. GM PPU is currently ramping up its team and is hiring in all areas of the business.” While GM has a limited history regarding F1, GM is ready to take the international motor race by storm. Last week, GM signalled it was ready to build its own F1 cars and power units by 2030. The company has not yet revealed an official timeline on when the engines will be ready, but GM is sure to become competitive following the yearslong process leading up to their F1 debut.