In a stunning revelation that could reshape the Formula 1 landscape, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner has confirmed that General Motors' Cadillac brand is actively developing its own power unit for potential 2028 entry.
The disclosure comes amid ongoing discussions about Cadillac and Andretti Global's ambitious bid to join the prestigious racing championship, presenting a significant challenge to established engine manufacturers.
Strategic Power Play
Horner's comments to the Independent highlight a strategic masterstroke by the American automotive giant. Rather than relying on customer engines from existing suppliers, Cadillac is pursuing the more demanding but ultimately more controlling path of developing its own propulsion system.
"They're working on their own engine," Horner stated unequivocally. "Which... with General Motors behind it, of course they have the resource and capacity to do that." This move demonstrates General Motors' serious commitment to Formula 1, leveraging their substantial engineering resources and technical expertise.
2028 Regulations: The Golden Opportunity
The timing aligns perfectly with Formula 1's next major regulatory shift. The 2028 season will introduce new power unit specifications, creating an ideal entry point for new manufacturers without the disadvantage of catching up to established development curves.
This strategic positioning allows Cadillac to develop their engine from a clean slate, incorporating the latest hybrid technology and sustainable fuel innovations that will define Formula 1's next era.
Red Bull's Cautious Perspective
Despite the exciting prospects, Horner maintained Red Bull's consistent position regarding grid expansion. The reigning world champions have expressed concerns about diluting the current prize fund distribution among more teams.
However, Horner acknowledged the significant value a manufacturer of General Motors' stature would bring to the sport, particularly with their commitment to developing proprietary technology rather than becoming another customer team.
Manufacturer Rivalry Intensifies
Cadillac's entry would mark the latest in a growing list of major automotive manufacturers committing to Formula 1. They would join Ferrari, Mercedes, Alpine, Audi, and Honda in developing the complex hybrid power units that represent the pinnacle of automotive technology.
This development represents not just another team entry, but a substantial engineering investment that could push innovation boundaries and intensify competition both on and off the track.
The Formula 1 world now watches with anticipation as Cadillac progresses with its power unit development, potentially bringing American automotive excellence to the global racing stage in 2028.
