TWG Motorsports and General Motors create GM Performance Power Units LLC for their PU programme, as Russ O’Blenes is named CEO.
In a bid to become a full works team by the end of the decade, TWG Motorsports and General Motor announced the creation of GM Performance Power Units LLC, which is a new company to look after its PU programme for the Cadillac outfit that starts its F1 journey in 2026 as a customer outfit.
After Andretti were denied entry by F1, a revamped idea by General Motors helped it secure entry from 2026 onward under its Cadillac brand. As such, the American outfit will go by ‘Cadillac Formula 1 Team’ name when it kick-starts in a year’s time from now – being the 11th outfit.
Cadillac will use the Ferrari power unit to start in 2026, but by the end of the decade (unclear if 2028 or 2030), it will be a full works team when General Motors will have its power unit ready to enter. The American manufacturer has roped in O’Blenes to lead the powertrains programme.
O’Blenes is already part of General Motors and will switch over to lead the F1 power unit programme. “We’re delighted to welcome Russ to this pivotal role,” said TWG Motorsports’ Dan Towriss. “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.”
At the same time, GM’s Mark Reuss stated: “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. 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.”
O’Blenes has worked on several projects at General Motors, which includes its EV programme. The development and test of a prototype engine technology is already on. The American giants wish to open a dedicated facility near the company’s Charlotte Technical Center in 2026.
“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.”
Here’s Cadillac deal with Ferrari
Here’s news on Cadillac team principal Graeme Lowdon
Here’s news on Cadillac entry
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