The Audi engine has been successfully fired up: the new power unit was started up in the chassis for the first time before Christmas – here’s what those responsible have to say about it
Audi has reached the next milestone ahead of its entry into Formula 1 in 2026: Audi’s power unit was started up in the chassis for the first time on December 19, 2025, in Hinwil, as promised before Christmas.
“A fire-up is always a special moment, but this one marks a new beginning,” says Mattia Binotto, Head of Audi F1 Project. “It is the tangible result of our joint efforts and the dedicated work of our teams in Neuburg and Hinwil.”
“Seeing everything come together for the first time gives the entire project incredible energy. We have laid a solid foundation for a long journey that will be characterized by our relentless drive for improvement.”
For Audi’s Formula 1 project, the event demonstrates the concrete collaboration between powertrain development in Neuburg, the chassis team in Hinwil, and the technology center in Bicester. It is the moment when the car starts up for the first time.
Starting up gives the Audi team “new energy”
“This successful start is an important milestone that confirms the quality of the work and cooperation of all departments,” adds team boss Jonathan Wheatley. “It gives the entire team new energy and a clear focus for preparing for the next development phases.”
This also includes the moment when the car is taken onto the track for the first time. Exactly when this will be is still unclear. Apparently, as was already announced before Christmas, Audi will take the new car out for a spin for the first time at a film day before the official test drives in Barcelona.
However, the next big event will be the team presentation on January 20, 2026, in Berlin, where the final paintwork and visual identity will be unveiled on the racetrack ahead of the official test in Barcelona.
