General Motors Explores Development of Its Own Formula 1 Engine: ‘Certainly a Possibility’

According to a report by Autosport, GM Motorsport’s Executive Director Eric Warren has confirmed that an evaluation is underway for an F1 engine program. It’s not about the possibility of the automaker achieving this task, but rather about the viability of such a decision. In response to the query on whether GM would fabricate its own power units, Warren replied, “We could, of course.”

He didn’t shy away from stating, “It is something we are exploring. We are examining power units,” Warren elaborated.

He mentioned that any endeavors before 2026 are infeasible since the deadline to become an engine manufacturer for that year has passed. Should they manage to secure a spot on the grid prior to then, they will likely be procuring an engine from Renault. However, entry by 2027 seems plausible.

“GM is keen on actively participating in the car and design process. It’s not merely rebranding an engine,” he indicated to Autosport, indirectly alluding to Ford. The rival from Dearborn has engaged in what is essentially a badge-engineering deal with Red Bull. Red Bull was already seeking such a partnership with an automaker before Ford expressed any public inclination to join the sport.

The Andretti-Cadillac team may have other alternatives as well. Honda, which has existing connections with Andretti, could potentially be persuaded to re-engage more actively in Formula 1. The Japanese automaker reluctantly dismantled its Formula 1 engine project in the late 2010s shortly after experiencing significant success. Its engines have propelled Max Verstappen to two consecutive world championships. However, Red Bull has decided to replace Honda’s power units with its proprietary design in 2026, creating a potential opportunity for GM and Andretti.

The appeal of an in-house engine is evident. The Detroit automaker currently manufactures the exclusive 5.5-liter V8 for its V-LMDh car, which has demonstrated competitiveness in its previous races. It is set to compete at Le Mans in June for the overall victory.

As mentioned previously, General Motors, along with Andretti’s impressive new facilities, possesses the necessary assets. Together, they present a formidable combination, and if Andretti-Cadillac desires its own engine, they certainly have the capability. In fact, some of Warren’s statements could suggest concerns about the competitiveness of their Renault engine. In the context of expediting their presence on the track, he commented, “Our intention is to participate in races, ensure our competitiveness, and then evaluate in 2026 what strategy is most sensible.” If the Renault engine proved to be a robust unit, which historically has not been the case, it seems improbable that Warren would express such sentiments.

Until the approval of Andretti-Cadillac’s proposal is formalized, speculation is the only option. The team’s future plans will be clarified once it officially joins the grid, and until then, everything remains uncertain. Nevertheless, GM faces limited competition in the race for a spot. If another team is approved, it will likely represent the stars and stripes.

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