Jan.22 (GMM) One of the first encouraging signs of Formula 1’s new 2026 era may be something fans have been missing for years – a more aggressive engine sound.
During Audi’s recent shakedown running, team boss Jonathan Wheatley said the noise coming from the new power unit stood out immediately.
“One thing I would say that was evident from our run-in – and it may have been a one-off – but the engine sound was really good,” Wheatley said at the Audi presentation.
“This generation of engine – I’ve also seen some Instagram posts from other teams, and I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but the engine sound is more aggressive.”
Audi driver Gabriel Bortoleto agreed. “It definitely sounds more pleasant than last year,” the Brazilian said as he prepares for his second Formula 1 season.
Teammate Nico Hulkenberg was more cautious but still intrigued. He described the sound as “a little different,” adding that he wants to reserve final judgement until completing more representative laps at speed.
Technically, the change is no coincidence. While the electrical side of the power unit now contributes close to 50 percent of the total energy output, the removal of the MGU-H – which previously harvested energy from exhaust gases – has altered the exhaust system significantly. With fewer restrictions and different flow characteristics, the combustion engine’s note is once again more prominent.
Audi CEO Gernot Dollner is keen to experience that first-hand. “I will try to be at the races whenever possible,” he said. “That will probably work out six to eight times per season.”
Dollner confirmed he will attend the Melbourne season opener in person, following other races “enthusiastically on TV.”