Audi, bp Partner for Green Innovation in Formula 1
Key Takeaways
- Audi and bp partner for a strategic partnership in Formula 1.
- Focus on developing high-performance sustainable fuels and lubricants.
- Collaboration aims to shape the future of sustainable motorsport.
The much-awaited 2026 Formula 1 debut of Audi is accompanied by a ground-breaking new collaboration with energy giant bp. This partnership aims to advance sustainable technologies in motorsports.
The partnership leverages the expertise of both companies. Audi brings its innovative spirit, while bp and its Castrol lubricants division offer extensive experience in developing high-performance fuels and lubricants. This close collaboration has been ongoing for nearly two years, with a shared focus on optimising the Audi F1 Power Unit.
Sustainable Fuel for a Greener Future
A core aspect of the partnership involves developing FIA-approved Advanced Sustainable Fuels. These fuels are crucial for Formula 1's 2026 regulations, mandating a minimum 65% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional petrol.
Castrol on Board for Lubrication Excellence
Beyond fuels, bp's Castrol brand will supply Audi with a customised suite of lubricants. This includes Castrol EDGE, their most advanced engine oil, formulated specifically for the V6 turbo engine. The electric components of the power unit will benefit from Castrol's ON range of EV fluids, ensuring optimal performance across the entire system.
A Partnership Rooted in Success
Audi and bp share a long and successful history in motorsport, with Castrol lubricants powering Audi victories in various championships, including the World Rally Championship and the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours.
The partnership extends beyond technical cooperation. bp secures the coveted title of the first official partner for Audi's future F1 factory team. This sponsorship grants bp, Castrol, and Aral (bp's German retail brand) valuable marketing and branding rights within the high-profile world of Formula 1.
Andreas Seidl, CEO Audi F1 team: “Audi and bp have always worked together successfully in motorsport. We are delighted that we can take this special partnership to the next level in Formula 1. Audi stands for ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ and bp and Castrol also aspire to deliver the best technologies in the field of fuels and lubricants.
"This is a perfect match. It is a strong signal for Audi’s future F1 factory team that we have been able to establish this partnership at such an early stage. We sense the appeal of the Audi F1 Project and how many renowned companies want to work with Audi in Formula 1.”
Nicola Buck, SVP marketing, bp: “We are proud that Audi has once again chosen to partner with bp and Castrol, this time for their entry into Formula 1. It gives our premium brands the opportunity to showcase our technical expertise at the pinnacle of motorsport. We are already making great progress with the Audi F1 Project on the development of the bp fuel and Castrol lubricants as we seek to innovate and unlock maximum engine performance for the Audi F1 Power Unit from 2026.”
Adam Baker, CEO Audi Formula Racing GmbH: “This partnership is of great importance to us. There will be strong competition in the field of sustainable fuels in Formula 1 from 2026. In view of the high performance potential, it was important for us to start our fuel testing at the end of 2022 with bp as our partner.
"The combustion process is highly complex and can only be optimized by developing the engine in combination with the fuel properties. That’s why at Audi Formula Racing, where we are well advanced with Audi’s F1 power unit development, we use all three single-cylinder test benches allowed by the FIA regulations intensively for fuel development. It is impressive how many different fuel variants we have developed to date as we prepare for our 2026 race season. I am convinced that we are perfectly positioned with bp and Castrol.”
Audi and bp have a common dedication to innovation and sustainability, which puts them in a strong position to influence Formula 1's future by pushing the limits of clean racing technology and establishing new benchmarks for environmentally responsible performance.
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Source: Audi
