Sergio Pérez faces the Azerbaijan Grand Prix with the introduction of a new specification of the Ferrari power unit, called ADUO 2, in his Cadillac single-seater. This update arrives at a crucial stage for the American team, which aims to improve its performance after initial challenges in its debut Formula 1 season.
The updated power unit will be unveiled by the Mexican driver on the urban circuit of Baku, a track well-suited for assessing improvements in both top speed and energy management, due to its mix of technical sectors and one of the longest straights in the championship.
This update strengthens the collaboration between Cadillac and Ferrari, which supplies engines to the American team through 2026, while General Motors prepares its own powertrain to be integrated from 2029 onwards. The arrival of the ADUO 2 specification follows several races in which Cadillac tried to introduce new components but faced logistical delays and technical issues, such as Pérez’s retirement in Madrid due to a cooling system failure.
Context and Development of Cadillac’s Formula 1 Project
Cadillac began its first Formula 1 season in 2024, fielding Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas as its lead drivers. The team currently stands 11th in the constructors’ championship, still far from its sporting goals due to reliability and performance problems. In this context, technical improvements like the new power unit are vital to close the gap with rival teams.
Regarding the engine, the ADUO 2 update represents a significant step forward in the evolution of Ferrari technology used by Cadillac. Pérez had already expressed his expectation to have this upgrade available at the Azerbaijan GP to achieve better performance, highlighting that the absence of the new engine and rear wing negatively affected his competitiveness at the Italian Grand Prix.
Meanwhile, Valtteri Bottas brings positive experience at Baku, where he won in 2019, adding to Pérez’s two victories on this circuit in 2021 and 2023, which boosts the team’s confidence for this stage of the calendar beyond Europe.
Practical Impact for Fans and Residents in Argentina and Latin America
For Formula 1 enthusiasts, especially in Argentina and the region, the introduction of the ADUO 2 Ferrari power unit in Pérez’s car represents an important element to follow the progress of emerging teams like Cadillac in the pinnacle of motorsport. The improvement could translate into more competitive performance from the Mexican driver, who has a favorable record on technical street circuits.
Fans will be able to observe during free practice sessions and the race how the small aerodynamic modifications and the new power unit affect the car’s performance. This also raises expectations about Cadillac’s ability to establish itself as a contender team in the future.
Additionally, General Motors’ development of its own engine for 2029 generates long-term interest in how American technology will be integrated and challenge established suppliers like Ferrari.
- New Ferrari power unit specification ADUO 2 for Cadillac
- First race use: Azerbaijan GP 2024
- Cadillac currently 11th in the constructors’ championship
- Previous issues: Pérez retired in Madrid due to cooling system failure
- Cadillac uses Ferrari engines until 2026; GM developing own engine for 2029
- Track record at Baku: Pérez won in 2021 and 2023; Bottas winner in 2019
Frequently Asked Questions
What technical update will Sergio Pérez have at the 2024 Azerbaijan GP?
Pérez will debut a new Ferrari power unit specification called ADUO 2, along with minor aerodynamic changes to test over the weekend.
Why is this update important for Cadillac?
The update represents an opportunity to improve performance and close the gap with rivals in its debut season, especially after reliability and performance problems in previous races.
Does this mean Pérez is racing for Ferrari instead of Cadillac?
No. Although the engine comes from Ferrari, Pérez continues to race for Cadillac, which uses Ferrari engines until 2026 while developing its own powertrain.
Source: www.infobae.com
