SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Jan. 09, 2025 – The roar of Cadillac engines is set to echo through the world of Formula 1 as TWG Motorsports and General Motors accelerate their plans for a "full works" team. Today, they announced the formation of GM Performance Power Units LLC, a new company dedicated to building Cadillac's own Formula 1 powertrains, and named industry veteran Russ O'Blenes as its CEO.
GM Performance Power Units: A Driving Force in Cadillac's F1 Future
This strategic move solidifies Cadillac's commitment to becoming a major player in Formula 1 by the end of the decade. GM Performance Power Units will be responsible for developing the engines that will power the Cadillac F1 team when it hits the grid in 2026.
Russ O'Blenes Takes the Helm
With over 30 years of motorsports engineering experience, Russ O'Blenes brings a wealth of expertise to this crucial role. Currently the director of the GM Motorsports Propulsion and Performance team, O'Blenes has a proven track record of success in developing championship-winning engines.
"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 Legacy of Performance
O'Blenes' career is marked by significant achievements, including powertrain development for championship racing teams and award-winning production vehicles. He also spearheaded the development of the GM Performance and Racing Center in Pontiac, Michigan, and the commercialization of the brand's eCrate initiative for performance car builders and EV enthusiasts.
"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 GM President Mark 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.”
Engineering Excellence
Development and testing of the team's Formula 1 prototype engine technology are already underway. The F1 power unit will leverage GM's expertise in electrification, hybrid technology, sustainable fuels, high-efficiency internal combustion engines, advanced controls, and software systems, pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.
Building for the Future
A dedicated facility for Performance Power Units LLC is planned near GM's Charlotte Technical Center, scheduled to open in 2026. This state-of-the-art facility will be the hub for Cadillac's F1 power unit development.
"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.”
Bridging the Gap
While the GM-developed engines are being finalized, the Cadillac Formula 1 Team will utilize Ferrari power units, ensuring a smooth transition onto the grid in 2026.
About TWG Motorsports and General Motors
TWG Motorsports, the racing division of TWG Global, is focused on applying its transformative growth strategy to global motorsports. TWG Motorsports owns and operates Andretti Global, Wayne Taylor Racing, and Spire Motorsports. In partnership with General Motors, they founded the Cadillac Formula 1 team in 2024.
General Motors (NYSE:GM) is a global leader in the automotive industry, committed to building safer, smarter, and lower-emission vehicles. GM's brands include Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC, offering a diverse portfolio of gasoline-powered and electric vehicles.