TWG Motorsports and GM announced on Thursday the formation of GM Performance Power Units LLC.
Industry veteran Russ O’Blenes has been named CEO of the new venture, which will build powertrains for the Cadillac Formula 1 team that will be on the grid in 2026.
With more than 30 years of motor racing engineering experience, O’Blenes is currently director of the GM Motorsports Propulsion and Performance team. O’Blenes joins TWG Motorsports and GM’s roster of innovators, creating a world-class technological base for the new Formula 1 team.
O’Blenes will work closely with Cadillac Formula One Team Principal Graeme Lowdon.
Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports stated:
We’re delighted to welcome Russ to this pivotal role. “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.”
President of General Motors Mark Reuss said:
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.”
Development and testing of the team’s Formula 1 prototype engine technology is already underway. Engineering the F1 power unit will leverage and advance GM’s expertise in electrification, hybrid technology, sustainable fuels, high efficiency internal combustion engines, advanced controls, and software systems.
Plans are in place to open a dedicated facility for Performance Power Units LLC near GM’s Charlotte Technical Center in 2026.
O’Blenes says:
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. “GM PPU is currently ramping up its team and is hiring in all areas of the business.”
Cadillac will use Ferrari power units during their debut season in Formula One in 2026.