GM targets 2029 F1 power unit after FIA approval

General Motors will aim to deliver its first power unit in 2029 after receiving official approval from the FIA to become a Formula 1 supplier.

The GM-backed Cadillac F1 team entry was finally approved at the start of March, with a power unit supply deal with Ferrari in place for at least the opening two seasons of its time in the sport. GM had outlined its intention to build its own power unit in future and is currently constructing a facility in North Carolina, with a target of beginning operations there in 2026.

“With this approval from the FIA, we will continue to accelerate our efforts to bring an American-built F1 power unit to the grid,’’ TWG GM Performance Power Units LLC. CEO Russ O’Blenes said.

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As part of the approval announcement, GM confirmed Cadillac will "utilize Ferrari power units until the GM engines are homologated for racing use,” with its status as a power unit supplier set to come into effect in 2029.

“Over two years ago, the FIA approved the entry of an 11th team into the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, guided by my vision to expand the grid and bring new talent and opportunity to our sport,” FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said. “Although the process was at times challenging, the progress we see today affirms the journey has been worthwhile.

“Welcoming GM Performance Power Units LLC. as an approved power unit supplier for the championship starting in 2029 marks another step in the global expansion of Formula 1 and highlights the growing interest from world-class automotive manufacturers like General Motors.

“Their dedication to innovation, sustainability, and competition is fully aligned with the FIA’s vision for the future of our sport. It also strengthens our commitment to making motorsport more accessible and inclusive worldwide - welcoming new manufacturers, advancing technology, and connecting with a broader, more diverse fan base.”

2029 is still currently slated to be a year using the next-generation V6 turbo power units that will be introduced next season, although recent discussions have opened up the possibility of a naturally aspirated engine running on sustainable fuels being introduced around the turn of the decade.