Cadillac F1 Livery: Science, Aesthetics, and the 'Poster Test'

Cadillac Formula 1 team principal Graeme Lowdon has revealed the surprising science behind their 2026 car's livery, emphasizing that design choices extend far beyond mere aesthetics.

Why it matters

Livery selection is a critical decision that balances performance, visual appeal, and fan engagement. Even subtle differences in color can impact a car's weight, heat management, and long-term appearance, making it a complex engineering and marketing challenge.

The Science of Livery

Lowdon detailed several factors influencing livery design:

• Weight Penalty: "White cars are heavier than black cars - by a few grams." These small differences are significant in F1. When wrapping carbon, lighter colors require heavier vinyl than darker ones.
• Finish Matters: Even the choice between gloss and matte paint schemes can lead to weight disparities, as seen with teams like Red Bull opting for lighter matte bases.
• Heat Impact: While sophisticated cooling systems handle most heat dissipation, Lowdon notes that light colors can discolour in areas of high heat, especially with new power units set for 2026.

The 'Poster Test' Philosophy

Above all, Lowdon wants his car to pass the "12-year-old fan test." He envisions fans looking at the car on the grid and thinking, "That looks great." The goal is to create a car captivating enough for fans to want a poster of it on their bedroom wall, symbolizing the "best-looking car on the grid."

What's Next

Cadillac, supported by General Motors, is set to join the F1 championship in 2026. The specific driver pairing for their debut season has not yet been announced.