Audi has taken a significant step in its Formula 1 journey by recruiting Swiss racing professional Neel Jani as a simulator driver for the development of its Formula 1 power unit. Jani’s extensive motorsport experience will contribute to shaping Audi’s hybrid power unit, comprising an internal combustion engine, electric motor, battery, and control electronics, as the company gears up for its Formula 1 entry in 2026.
With a focus on refining the power unit, Audi is concurrently upgrading its dynamic driving simulator at its Neuburg site. The simulator serves as a crucial tool in the development process, requiring a skilled development driver who understands technology and possesses versatile experience in energy management under racing conditions.
Oliver Hoffmann, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development of Audi, emphasized the significance of simulation: “Simulation plays a major role in our Formula 1 project… It requires a development driver who… brings versatile experience to the project, especially in terms of energy management in racing conditions.”
Neel Jani, having spent considerable time in Formula 1 simulators during his tenure as a test and reserve driver at Red Bull Racing, brings valuable insights to Audi. His experience as a race driver in endurance racing, including winning the FIA World Endurance Championship and the 24-hour race at Le Mans, provides a solid foundation for contributing to Audi’s Formula 1 endeavor.
Audi’s power unit development has been advancing with promising results from testing a one-cylinder engine since late 2022. As regulations shift towards higher electrification, the power unit aims for enhanced performance. The electric motor (MGU-K) will match the internal combustion engine’s output, all powered by sustainable synthetic fuel, in line with Audi’s commitment to sustainability.
Adam Baker, CEO of Audi Formula Racing GmbH, highlighted the importance of practical development in combination with simulation: “Know-how, experience and practically relevant development are indispensable elements of drawing the right conclusions from the simulation.”
Audi’s first hybrid power unit, encompassing various components, is slated for dyno testing by the end of the year. Formula 1’s open competition drives technological advancements in electromobility and sustainable e-fuels, aligning with Audi’s pursuit of eco-friendly innovation. With Neel Jani’s expertise, Audi is poised to make significant strides in its Formula 1 power unit development, contributing to the future of high-performance hybrid racing.