General Motors Unveils Cadillac's Special Edition Formula 1 Test Vehicle at New HQ
In a dramatic reveal at GM's newly opened headquarters in Detroit on January 13, 2026, General Motors President Mark Reuss unveiled Cadillac's special edition Formula 1 racing livery test vehicle. This unveiling marks a significant moment as Cadillac prepares to enter the prestigious Formula 1 circuit.
The event, part of the Detroit Free Press Breakfast Club, featured a discussion between Reuss and automotive executive Roger Penske. The conversation covered a range of topics, including GM's potential sale of the Renaissance Center, tariffs, Detroit's revitalization, supply chain challenges, and supplier relationships. The atmosphere was electric as the discussion concluded with a teaser video of the upcoming Formula 1 test racer, followed by a dramatic reveal of the vehicle itself.
The vehicle, dubbed a 'shakedown livery' by GM's F1 team, is a preliminary design of the brand's next F1 car. It's a temporary setup built for learning and testing, not for its debut. The Cadillac team will use this vehicle to fine-tune aerodynamics and performance.
Reuss revealed that the final car, which Cadillac will race in the F1 season, will be unveiled during the Super Bowl on February 8. The design, featuring a black and white scheme with a prominent Cadillac shield on the rear, is a collaborative effort between GM's design teams and F1 team owners. The names of those who worked on the car are etched into its nose.
The Formula 1 test vehicle will be on display at the Detroit Auto Show until January 25, 2026. This unveiling is a unique occurrence, as it's the first and potentially the only vehicle reveal during the week of the 2026 Detroit Auto Show, which opens to the media on January 17 and to the public on January 17.
This event marks a significant milestone for GM and Cadillac, as they embark on their Formula 1 journey, and it's a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation and performance.
