SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 6, 2025 – TWG Motorsports, the force behind Andretti Global, Wayne Taylor Racing, Spire Motorsports, and the Cadillac Formula 1 team, has announced a major step towards becoming a full-fledged constructor in the world’s premier racing series. The company has unveiled GM Performance Power Units LLC, a new entity dedicated to developing and building powertrains for the Cadillac F1 car. This move signals Cadillac’s ambition to compete at the highest level, building both its chassis and power units by the end of the decade.
Leadership and Vision
Industry veteran Russ O’Blenes has been appointed CEO of GM Performance Power Units LLC. O’Blenes brings over 30 years of experience in motor racing engineering to the role and currently serves as the director of the GM Motorsports propulsion and performance team. His leadership is seen as crucial to Cadillac’s success in Formula 1.
“We’re delighted to welcome Russ to this pivotal role,” said Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports. “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.”
A History of Performance
O’Blenes’ impressive career includes powertrain development for numerous championship-winning racing teams and award-winning production vehicles. He also spearheaded the development of the GM Performance and Racing Center in Pontiac, Michigan, and the successful commercialization of the brand’s eCrate initiative, catering to performance car builders and EV enthusiasts.
GM President Mark Reuss emphasized O’Blenes’ expertise and the significance of this venture for the company. “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,” said Reuss. “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 the Future
While the Cadillac F1 team will initially compete using Ferrari powertrains when they enter the championship in 2026, the formation of GM Performance Power Units LLC underscores Cadillac’s long-term commitment to the sport. Development and testing of the team’s Formula 1 prototype engine technology are already underway, demonstrating a proactive approach to competition.
A New Facility and Growing Team
GM plans to open a dedicated facility for Performance Power Units LLC near GM’s Charlotte Technical Center in 2026. This investment in infrastructure highlights the company’s commitment to providing the resources necessary for success.
“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,” said O’Blenes. “GM PPU is currently ramping up its team and is hiring in all areas of the business.” This statement signals growth and opportunity within the newly formed company, inviting talented individuals to join the Cadillac Formula 1 program.
Cadillac’s Formula 1 Ambitions
The creation of GM Performance Power Units LLC solidifies Cadillac’s intentions to become a prominent force in Formula 1. By developing its own powertrains, Cadillac aims to achieve the status of a “full works” team, controlling all aspects of its racing program. This ambitious undertaking reflects GM’s dedication to innovation and performance on the global stage of Formula 1. The move also demonstrates a significant investment in American motorsport and reinforces the company’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries. As the 2026 season approaches, the racing world will be watching closely as Cadillac prepares to make its mark on the pinnacle of motorsport. The development of the power unit, a critical component of any competitive F1 car, will be a key factor in determining Cadillac's success. With a dedicated team, state-of-the-art facilities, and experienced leadership, Cadillac is poised to make a significant impact in the world of Formula 1.