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<h2>Audi Unveils First Look at 2026 F1 Engine Sound</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.motorsport.com/team/audi/49022/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Audi</a> has made history as the inaugural Formula 1 team to test its 2026 race car on track, providing an initial listen to the thrilling engine noise expected this season. Team principal Jonathan Wheatley has described the new engine sound as “really good.”</p>
<h2>New Power Units for 2026 Season</h2>
<p>Starting in 2026, F1 will launch new power units characterized by a nearly 50:50 division between power generated by the internal combustion engine and its electrical components. This shift represents a significant increase in electrical energy reliance compared to the previous hybrid generation, which faced criticism from drivers and fans due to its sound profile during races.</p>
<h2>Impressive Engine Noise Expected</h2>
<p>During the launch event for Audi’s first F1 racer, the R26, team members discussed improvements in engine noise that spectators can anticipate in 2026. Wheatley noted, “One thing that was clear from our initial run, and perhaps it’s just a fluke, is that the engine sounds fantastic.”</p>
<h2>Reacting to the New Sound</h2>
<p>Audi driver <a href="https://www.motorsport.com/driver/gabriel-bortoleto/950450/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gabriel Bortoleto</a> also expressed enthusiasm for the new sound, saying, "It feels much better than last year. When I first turned on the car, I was genuinely emotional. It felt monumental and historic." Meanwhile, teammate <a href="https://www.motorsport.com/driver/nico-hulkenberg/9327/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nico Hulkenberg</a> acknowledged the freshness of the new power units but reserved full judgement until he accumulates more track time.</p>
<h2>Changes Impacting Engine Noise</h2>
<p>One factor that may affect the sound of engines in 2026 is the elimination of the MGU-H, a component that captured energy from exhaust heat. Since exhaust systems significantly influence a car's sound, this could contribute to the auditory transition, even as F1 continues to utilize V6 internal combustion engines.</p>
<h2>A Competitive Field Ahead</h2>
<p>Audi will join fellow power unit manufacturers Mercedes, Ferrari, Honda, and the recently established Red Bull-Ford partnership in the 2026 season. In the lead-up to the new season, Ferrari, Honda, and Mercedes have all provided previews of their engines' sounds as they ignite their power units in-house.</p>
<h2>Gallery from the Audi Launch Event</h2>
<p>For further insights and visuals from Audi’s launch, including exciting snapshots of the R26, check out the extensive photo gallery linked below.</p>
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