Feb.11 (GMM) Dan Towriss insists Cadillac’s long-term Formula 1 power unit program is progressing faster than expected, as the American newcomer prepares for its debut season.
Speaking in a conference call with major media, the team’s CEO confirmed General Motors’ in-house engine is currently targeted for 2029 – but could arrive sooner if the regulatory landscape shifts.
“The project is actually ahead of schedule,” Towriss said. “Currently, we plan to compete with the Cadillac PU in 2029.”
Under the present rules, Cadillac will race as a Ferrari customer from 2026, with its own General Motors-backed power unit scheduled to follow three years later. However, ongoing discussions about potential post-2030 engine revisions mean timelines could change.
“There have been some developments with the PU rules and we are following all of that closely,” Towriss explained. “Under the current regulations, we are on track to introduce the PU in 2029.
“It’s possible that the rules will change before 2031, but it’s also possible that they won’t change before 2030 or 2031.
“Regardless of the timing, it’s important that the Cadillac PU is on the grid as soon as possible and from my position that is absolutely the number one priority. If there is a way to bring it forward, we will do so, but at the moment our focus remains on 2029.”
For now, Cadillac’s focus is on building a solid foundation with Ferrari supply. Towriss praised the cooperation with Frederic Vasseur and his team.
“It’s been very good working with Ferrari,” he said. “Fred and his team have been great and supportive in Barcelona. We are very happy with our relationship with Ferrari and how well it is going.”
Ferrari will understandably protect its intellectual property while supplying a future rival, but Towriss downplayed any concerns.
“You’d naturally bring your own IP, right? So Ferrari has that, and the GM Performance Power Unit Group is developing its own IP. These programs will be completely independent,” he said.
On track, expectations remain cautious. Driver Sergio Perez recently said finishing last in 2026 would be a disappointment, and Towriss echoed that competitive mindset without setting arbitrary targets.
“Points is an arbitrary goal,” he admitted. “Firstly, in the first year we want to see how many cars we can pass on the track and how far we can climb in the standings. That’s really the thinking we have at this stage.”
He acknowledged that Melbourne may expose aerodynamic weaknesses.
“We will likely be behind in terms of aerodynamics in Melbourne, but it’s also true that we will gain more data. This will allow us to accelerate the development of this car.”
Barcelona’s running, he stressed, was purely about reliability. “Everything is new – a first steering column, a first fuel system, so our only focus was reliability.”
Meanwhile, Cadillac has strengthened its leadership team. Lewis Hamilton’s right-hand-man Marc Hynes has joined as chief racing officer, tasked with aligning drivers and engineering operations.
Towriss says the objective is bigger than short-term points.
“We’re not going to be obsessed with scoring points from the start,” he said. “What we’re aiming for is long-term success in this sport.”
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES