Cadillac Still Targeting 2029 for Its Own Formula 1 Power Unit
Cadillac’s Formula 1 project continues to take shape, with the American outfit confirming that it is still targeting 2029 for the debut of its own power unit.
The team will join the Formula 1 grid in 2026, but its full works power unit programme is only expected to arrive later. For now, Cadillac will begin life in F1 using Ferrari engines and gearboxes, while work continues behind the scenes on its long-term powertrain plans.
Cadillac’s entry received final approval in March 2025, clearing the way for the team to become Formula 1’s newest outfit. Shortly after that, GM Performance Power Units LLC — created by TWG Motorsports and General Motors — was approved by the FIA as an official F1 power unit supplier from 2029.
That timeline remains the focus, although TWG Motorsports boss Dan Towriss has made it clear that the team would like to move faster if the opportunity is there.
Cadillac Want Their Own Engine as Soon as Possible
Speaking ahead of Cadillac’s 2026 debut, Towriss explained that the team is closely monitoring discussions around Formula 1’s future engine regulations.
The current plan remains for Cadillac’s own power unit to be on the grid in 2029, but there is still uncertainty around whether the regulations could change before 2031.
For Cadillac, the important point is not only entering Formula 1, but eventually becoming a true works operation with its own engine programme.
That distinction matters.
Running a customer engine allows the team to get onto the grid and begin building experience, but developing its own power unit gives Cadillac greater control over its long-term future. It also strengthens the identity of the project, especially with General Motors involved.
Towriss said the focus is still 2029, but if there are ways to bring that date forward, Cadillac will look at them.
Ferrari Partnership Key to Early F1 Years
Until Cadillac’s own power unit is ready, the team will rely on Ferrari for both engines and gearboxes.
That partnership gives Cadillac a strong foundation for its first few seasons in Formula 1. Starting with an established supplier should help reduce some of the risk that comes with entering the sport during a major regulation era.
Towriss spoke positively about the relationship with Ferrari, saying the Italian team has been supportive throughout the process, including during the Barcelona Shakedown.
For a new team, that support could prove extremely important.
Cadillac will have to deal with the usual challenges of building a Formula 1 operation from scratch: staffing, logistics, car development, race operations, and adapting to the demands of the calendar. Having a proven technical partner for the power unit and gearbox side allows the team to focus more energy on building its own structure.
New US Headquarters Taking Shape
Cadillac’s Formula 1 ambitions are not limited to the race team itself.
Work is also progressing on the team’s new United States headquarters in Fishers, Indiana. The facility will operate alongside Cadillac’s European base near Silverstone, giving the team a transatlantic setup as it prepares for life in F1.
Towriss confirmed that construction is expected to be completed later this year or in the first quarter of 2027.
The new headquarters is expected to be a state-of-the-art facility, with the team currently finalising design details and the manufacturing elements that will be included.
For Cadillac, this is another sign that the project is being built for the long term. The team is not simply entering Formula 1 to participate — it is investing in the infrastructure needed to become competitive over time.
Why 2029 Matters for Cadillac
The 2029 target is important because it gives Cadillac time to enter Formula 1, learn the environment, and build its own technical foundation before taking on the even bigger challenge of producing a power unit.
Formula 1 engines are among the most complex pieces of technology in global sport. Developing one requires major investment, specialist knowledge, and years of preparation.
By starting with Ferrari power, Cadillac can establish itself on the grid first, while GM Performance Power Units works toward the longer-term goal.
If Cadillac can successfully transition from customer team to works outfit, it could become one of the most significant new forces in Formula 1.
A Long-Term American F1 Project
Cadillac’s arrival comes at a time when Formula 1’s popularity in the United States continues to grow.
With races in Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas, plus increasing American interest in the sport, Cadillac’s entry adds another important layer to F1’s expansion in the US market.
But the power unit programme is what could turn Cadillac from a new team into a serious manufacturer presence.
For now, the message is clear: Ferrari power will get Cadillac started, but the long-term ambition remains a Cadillac engine on the Formula 1 grid.
And if the team can make that happen before 2029, they appear ready to push for it.
