Audi has announced significant organizational changes to its Formula 1 project as it prepares for its official entry into the world championship in 2026. The changes aim to streamline development and operational workflows as Audi integrates into the existing Sauber infrastructure and finalizes its takeover of the team. Mattia Binotto, who joined Audi’s F1 program last summer, will now lead the project as Head of Audi F1 Project, overseeing development efforts across Audi’s key facilities. Binotto’s promotion reflects a renewed push for technical synergy as Audi accelerates efforts to be fully prepared for the regulatory overhaul arriving with the 2026 season.

The company has also announced the arrival of a new Chief Operating Officer, Christian Foyer, who brings nearly two decades of experience in operations and project management within Formula 1 and high-performance automotive manufacturing. Foyer will join the AFR management board, taking over operational responsibilities previously held by outgoing CEO Adam Baker, whose role has been eliminated as part of the organizational restructure.

Stefan Dreyer will continue to lead power unit development at Neuberg and has been appointed as spokesperson for the AFR management board, reinforcing the technical direction of Audi’s F1 power unit division. Jonathan Wheatley, former Red Bull Sporting Director, has started his tenure as Team Principal and Management Board Spokesperson at Sauber Motorsport AG, managing race operations at the Hinwil-based squad.

These developments signal Audi’s clear intent to establish a high-functioning and technically unified team ahead of its highly anticipated Formula 1 debut. With new leadership in place and a sharpened focus on integration between race car and powertrain programs, the German manufacturer is entering the next phase of its F1 journey with increased momentum. The changes aim to achieve seamless coordination between the race car and powertrain, which is seen as a foundation for long-term competitiveness in Formula 1.

Audi’s entry into Formula 1 is expected to be a significant milestone for the company, and the organizational changes announced are designed to ensure that the team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead. With a strong leadership team in place and a clear focus on technical synergy, Audi is poised to make a significant impact in the world of Formula 1. The company’s commitment to establishing a unified and integrated team is a key aspect of its strategy, and the latest developments suggest that Audi is on track to achieve its goals.

At Milan Design Week 2025, the Dutch artist collective DRIFT made a triumphant return after nearly two decades with a breathtaking installation titled Drift Us. Created in collaboration with Audi, the installation was a poetic and immersive experience that not only captivated visitors with its beauty but also invited them to play an active role in its unfolding. The audience became an integral part of the experience, transforming into the force that animated the space: the wind.

The installation, housed within Audi’s House of Progress, comprised a field of filament-like light structures suspended in the air, swaying softly in synchronized motion. As people walked through the space, sensors detected their presence, triggering waves of movement that mimicked the organic swaying of tall grasses or the rippling of wind across water. This symbiotic dance between human motion and machine response formed the emotional core of the installation, underscoring DRIFT and Audi’s shared belief that progress emerges from motion, adaptability, and human connection.

DRIFT’s work is renowned for translating ephemeral elements from nature into sensory environments using cutting-edge technology. With Drift Us, they have once again succeeded in turning something intangible into a tangible, awe-inspiring spectacle. The installation served as a metaphor for Audi’s brand philosophy, inviting viewers to consider their role in shaping the future through small, seemingly invisible movements.

The themes of presence, nature, and human interaction with technology were timely and resonant, offering a quiet yet powerful reminder that even in a hyper-technological world, the human touch remains central. As DRIFT reflected, “Wind is the driving force of evolution and innovation in nature. Without movement, there is no progress.” In Drift Us, this sentiment takes elegant, responsive form, inviting each visitor to step into the role of the wind and recognize their potential to move not only objects but also ideas and futures forward.

The collaboration between DRIFT and Audi highlights the importance of human-centered innovation and the need for flexibility and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. By turning the audience into an integral part of the installation, DRIFT and Audi encouraged visitors to think about their own role in shaping the future of sustainable mobility and design. As visitors moved through the space, they activated change, becoming a part of the innovation process. This interactive and immersive experience left a lasting impression on visitors, inviting them to reflect on the interconnectedness of human movement, technology, and the natural world.

The European automotive sector is facing financial difficulties, which has raised questions about the future of Mercedes and Audi in Formula 1. However, Red Bull’s Helmut Marko believes that the financial incentives for manufacturers to remain in F1 are still strong. With the introduction of a budget cap in 2021, F1 teams are now profitable and the sport is experiencing a surge in popularity. Marko pointed out that most teams are earning money and sponsors are coming from different sectors, not just the car industry. The proportion of women among fans is also growing, and the demand for Grand Prix events is outstripping the available dates on the calendar.

The 2026 season is set to bring significant changes to F1, with new engine regulations and the introduction of smaller, lighter cars powered by a 50/50 split between electrical power and internal combustion engines running on sustainable biofuels. Mercedes will be looking to repeat their success from 2014, while Audi will be entering the sport as a works team after acquiring Sauber. Ford will also be returning to F1 in 2026, partnering with Red Bull, which will become an engine manufacturer for the first time.

Marko is optimistic about the future of F1, citing the influx of new manufacturers such as Cadillac, which will be powered by Ferrari engines initially. He believes that Cadillac can make a strong start to F1 life, but notes that logistical challenges may arise due to the fragmentation of locations between the engine factory in North Carolina and the team location in England. The FIA has confirmed that General Motors, Cadillac’s parent company, will become a new F1 engine manufacturer from 2029.

Overall, Marko’s comments suggest that F1 is becoming a more attractive and profitable venture for manufacturers, with the budget cap and regulatory changes making it a more stable and sustainable sport. The introduction of new manufacturers and the growing popularity of F1 are set to drive the sport forward, and Marko is confident that Mercedes and Audi will remain committed to F1 despite the challenges facing the European automotive sector. With the sport’s popularity increasing and the proportion of women among fans growing, F1 is poised for a bright future, with the 2026 season set to bring significant changes and new excitement to the world of motorsport.

The Audi Q5L was one of the main attractions at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, held from April 23 to May 2, 2025. As part of Audi’s lineup of 19 models, the Q5L debuted with a focus on combining top-class design and advanced technology. The Q5L has a 125mm longer wheelbase than the standard Q5, providing more rear-seat legroom and comfort. The exterior design is dynamic and muscular, with a signature single-frame honeycomb grille, sharper LED headlights, and sculpted air intakes.

The interior of the Q5L is a showcase of luxury, with premium materials such as exceptional leather and wooden inlays, and ambient lighting. The minimalist dashboard design emphasizes functionality, with Audi’s advanced virtual interfaces providing a better user experience. The Q5L is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, which produces 241 bhp and is paired with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox. The engine is also equipped with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, which boosts fuel efficiency and reduces emissions without compromising performance.

The Q5L features a range of advanced technologies, including Audi’s next-generation MMI panoramic display and a passenger-side touchscreen. The infotainment system supports seamless phone integration, voice control, and real-time connectivity, making it tailored to the tech-savvy Chinese market. Additional features include a high-end Bang & Olufsen sound system, multi-zone climate control, and heated, ventilated seats for added comfort.

In terms of safety, the Q5L comes with a range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Q5L also features a 360-degree camera system and parking assist, making it easier to navigate in tight city environments. With its combination of advanced technology, luxury features, and improved safety, the Audi Q5L is a strong contender in the Chinese market.

The Q5L was showcased alongside 18 other Audi models at the Shanghai Auto Show, highlighting the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence. With its unique design, advanced technology, and luxurious features, the Q5L is an attractive option for Chinese consumers looking for a high-end SUV. The Q5L’s longer wheelbase and improved interior space make it an ideal choice for families and individuals who value comfort and practicality. Overall, the Audi Q5L is a significant addition to the Audi lineup, and its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show marks an exciting new chapter for the brand in the Chinese market.

The article discusses the return of DRIFT, a Dutch art collective, to Milan Design Week after a decade, partnering with Audi to present the interactive robotic installation “Drift Us”. The installation, set in the courtyard of the Portrait Milano Hotel, invites visitors to explore how movement connects people with their surroundings. The work is part of Audi’s House of Progress initiative, which aims to engage audiences through experiences that connect innovation to human values.

The installation, designed by Lonneke Gordijn and Ralph Nauta, uses rhythmic motion to mimic the calming effect of wind moving through a grassy field. As visitors walk through the courtyard, they trigger a system of robotic elements that respond to their presence, transforming each participant into an active part of the installation. The installation builds its impact through tempo and rhythm, aligning with natural rhythms such as breathing and heartbeat.

The structure of Drift Us features materials chosen for their ability to respond to light and motion, including 3D-printed polymers, aluminum, stainless steel, and nylon monofilament. Every component contributes to the installation’s responsiveness and transparency, enhancing its floating and rhythmic effect. The sound composition by Joep Beving adds a musical dimension to the experience, supporting the visual and physical qualities of the space.

The article also highlights DRIFT’s history, which dates back to 2006, when the collective debuted at Salone del Mobile. Since then, they have focused on interactive sculptures and robotic artworks that address the relationship between humans and built environments. Their approach often draws from organic systems and physical science, using motion to simulate processes found in nature. For DRIFT, an artwork succeeds when it builds a quiet exchange between its mechanics and the people moving through it.

Overall, the article showcases the installation “Drift Us” as a unique and immersive experience that invites visitors to engage with the installation and reflect on the connection between movement and human values.

The Audi Jobday, a job fair, was held in Brussels to help jobseekers affected by the closure of Audi’s Brussels factory, which left around 3,000 employees without work. The event was organized by Belgium’s regional employment services and was attended by around 6,000 people. Many of the attendees were former Audi workers and subcontractors, but the fair was also open to other job seekers.

The event was deemed a “great success” by the employment services, which sought to match the highly skilled and experienced workers with new job opportunities. The former Audi employees, who are considered to be sought-after workers, were able to meet with a range of employers, from major companies like Brussels Airlines and the Ministry of Defence to smaller firms such as Safran Aircraft Engine Services Brussels and Vivaqua, the Brussels water company.

The job fair was a significant event in the region, as the closure of the Audi factory had a major impact on the industrial fabric of Brussels. The outgoing Brussels minister for Employment, Bernard Clerfayt, described the day as “an important day for job seekers and employers”, stating that the event was essential in helping the former Audi employees find new employment opportunities.

The employment services of Brussels, Wallonia, and Flanders worked together to organize the job fair, recognizing that the former Audi employees were in high demand due to their technical expertise, know-how, and years of experience. The services sought to help the former Audi workers to adapt to new roles and industries, providing them with support and guidance throughout the job search process.

Overall, the Audi Jobday was a successful event that helped to provide employment opportunities for jobseekers affected by the closure of the Audi factory in Brussels. The event demonstrated the importance of collaboration between employment services and employers in supporting workers who have been made redundant, and highlighted the value of the former Audi employees’ skills and experience in the job market.

Electrify America, a leading electric vehicle (EV) charging company, and Audi of America have announced an enhancement to their multi-year partnership to support the upcoming Q6 e-tron, Audi’s first long-range electric vehicle. The agreement will provide Electrify America’s charging network access to Audi’s new electric SUV.

As part of the agreement, Electrify America will offer exclusive access to its vast charging network, providing Audi Q6 e-tron owners with seamless access to over 2,200 charging points across the US, including highway corridors and urban areas. This partnership is designed to ensure that Audi’s new electric model, expected to debut in 2023, has access to a robust charging infrastructure, enabling long-distance travel and routine daily charging needs.

The partnership emphasizes Electrify America’s commitment to accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles by providing convenient and reliable charging solutions. By offering exclusive access to their charging network, Electrify America is confident that Audi’s Q6 e-tron owners will have a superior driving experience, allowing them to explore the country without range anxiety or restrictions.

In a statement, Johanes-Meier, Head of Region North America at AUDI AG, expressed the company’s excitement about the partnership: “We are thrilled to further expand our collaboration with Electrify America to support the upcoming Q6 e-tron. This agreement recognizes the need for seamless and efficient charging solutions for electric vehicles and demonstrates our commitment to providing our customers with an elevated ownership experience.”

Electrify America’s charging network has been designed to support the growing demand for electric vehicles, with a focus on delivering a convenient, reliable, and welcoming experience for electric vehicle owners. The partnership with Audi of America is the latest example of Electrify America’s commitment to driving the adoption of electric vehicles and creating a sustainable energy infrastructure.

The agreement is a significant step forward in the electric vehicle landscape, as it demonstrates the growing importance of partnerships in the industry. The Q6 e-tron, Audi’s first long-range electric vehicle, is expected to be a game-changer in the electric vehicle market, and this partnership will give customers unparalleled access to the charging infrastructure they need to get the most out of their new vehicle.

Overall, the enhanced partnership between Electrify America and Audi of America is a powerful example of the innovative spirit driving the electric vehicle industry forward, and it will play a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable transportation.

YouTuber Hood Stig transformed his $4,500 AUDI RS4 from a beaten-up car to a head-turning vehicle using affordable parts from Temu. The car was once considered barely worth fixing, but Hood Stig saw potential and set out to give it a total makeover. He began by repainting the car in a bright yellow film, a decision that made a significant difference in its appearance. The interior was also overhauled, with the replacement of the old seats and the installation of a luxury Rolls-Royce starlight system, an upgraded infotainment screen, and a flat-bottom steering wheel with a carbon fiber cover.

The entire process took 1,000 hours over seven months, resulting in a stunning transformation that left the car looking almost unrecognizable. In fact, the car’s new look was so impressive that Hood Stig decided to give it away to his YouTube subscribers for a mere $10, a true bargain. This project highlights the incredible potential for transformation even with a budget-friendly approach, and Hood Stig’s creativity and resourcefulness are an inspiration to many car enthusiasts.

As Sauber prepares to leave Formula One, the transition to becoming the Audi works team in 2026 is experiencing a bumpy ride, according to renowned commentator David Croft. The process began in 2022 with Audi’s agreement to take over Sauber, but has been marked by significant staff reshuffles and strategic shifts. Initially, Andreas Seidl was appointed CEO of Sauber Motorsport, but he was replaced by Mattia Binotto, former Ferrari team boss, after only four months. Binotto brought in Jonathan Wheatley, Red Bull’s long-time director, as team principal, but he won’t join until July.

Croft expresses concerns over the transition, citing the acrimonious departure of Seidl and the uncertainty surrounding the team’s future. The team’s base in Hinwil, Switzerland, is also a problem, as Audi wants to relocate to the UK, where most F1 teams are based, to tap into the talent pool. This may be challenging, given the high cost of living in Switzerland.

Despite these issues, Croft believes that Nico Hulkenberg’s experience and car development skills will be an asset to the team, and the selection of Gabriel Bortoleto, a promising driver from Brazil, could attract sponsorship. The team’s performance is also under pressure, as they need to avoid falling to the back of the grid.

In 2021, the FIA introduced a budget cap adjustment to account for high labor costs in countries like Switzerland, which costs 35-45% more than in the UK or Italy. Croft hopes that the team will have a better year and a smooth transition to Audi, marking a new era in Formula One.