Audi drivers flag hot-weather power-unit struggles ahead of Singapore

Power-unit performance in hot conditions is a concern for Audi as it heads into the Singapore Grand Prix, according to drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. Hülkenberg said Malaysia had brought new things to light about the power unit and that Singapore would present similar conditions. Asked whether the problem was mainly cooling, he said Audi was struggling with power.

Asked about the heat, Bortoleto called it Audi’s biggest limitation in recent races and said the team needed further steps to improve drivability. Separately, he said the major upgrade introduced in Baku had worked as expected after back-to-back tests in Malaysia, with a step forward at corner entry, mid-corner and exit.

The FIA has issued a heat-hazard declaration for Singapore, indicating a forecast of at least 31°C. Hülkenberg described Marina Bay as less power-sensitive on paper, but said his personal expectations were low and he expected another challenging weekend.

Bortoleto remains confident Audi can solve the problem. He cited Audi’s successes in DTM and the 24 Hours of Le Mans as reasons for trusting the team in Neuburg. He also said the team needs time and cautioned against expecting Audi to produce the best engine in its first Formula 1 season.