Audi seeks evolution in power unit during forced April break in F1
Audi is experiencing difficulties at the start of the 2026 Fórmula 1 season. The team only scored two points in the first three stages of the championship. Mattia Binotto, head of the project, identified the power unit as the main obstacle to performance. Ele talked about limitations in energy efficiency, power distribution and engine drivability.
The German automaker took over the structure of the old Sauber and developed the engine from scratch to adapt to the category’s new, more electrified regulations. The team occupies eighth place in Mundial out of Construtores. Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg form the driver duo.
Problems identified in the power unit
Mattia Binotto explained that most of the difference for the leaders is concentrated in the power unit. Gear changes occur abruptly and generate instability during acceleration and braking. Ele also cited issues of energy efficiency and power distribution.
On the same topic: Red Bull reveals engine problem that took Verstappen out of the race at the start in Monaco
These factors combined can cost up to a second per lap compared to the best cars on the grid. Binotto reinforced that the scenario was expected, as the creation of a new power unit represents a high technical challenge. The work on the chassis received a positive evaluation from the team management.
Impact on starts and car behavior
The starts represent a recurring weak point. Problemas of inertia in the turbo compressor and in the delivery of electrical energy contribute to the loss of positions at the beginning of the races. No Grande Prêmio of Japão, the team recorded another complicated exit.
These difficulties directly affect the racing pace of both drivers. The team seeks to simplify energy delivery and smooth the operation of the exchange without losing reliability. Bortoleto already scored in Audi’s debut in Austrália, finishing in ninth place.
More on this story: Honda reveals abnormal vibrations in Aston Martin power unit during the 2026 Formula 1 pre-season
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April break as an opportunity for development
The cancellation of Grandes Prêmios, Bahrein and Arábia Saudita created a hiatus of about five weeks. The team intends to use this period without racing to concentrate efforts on the technical restructuring of the power unit.
Binotto stated that the intense routine of preparing for the stages prevents deeper advances. The month of April will allow for a workshop dedicated to correcting design errors identified in the first races. The focus will be on resolving irregularities without compromising other car systems.
- Irregularity in gear changes
- Power unit energy efficiency
- Distribution and deployment of electrical energy
- Overall engine drivability
- Recurring problems at the start
Current position and expectations of the team
Audi has two points in the constructors’ championship and shares eighth place with another team. The immediate objective is to offer more competitive conditions to pilots. In the long term, the German brand plans to consolidate the project by 2030.
Binotto acknowledged that it is not possible to create immediate solutions for all bottlenecks. Ele highlighted the importance of maintaining consistent development plans. The team assesses that the chassis has good potential and that advances in the power unit will define future progress.
Learn more: Honda reveals abnormal vibrations in Aston Martin power unit in 2026 Formula 1 pre-season
Technical details and next steps
Engineers work to reduce abruptness in gear changes and improve engine response at different speeds. The team also analyzes data collected in the initial three steps to prioritize updates.
Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg remain responsible for taking the car to the track. The Brazilian has already demonstrated satisfaction with the chassis in initial sessions. The technical management reinforces that the gap will be decisive in aligning the mechanical set.
The return to the tracks should take place after the April break. Audi hopes to present a more balanced car following the calendar. Work continues to focus on the power unit to reduce the gap with the main competitors.
