3M is swerving into the Formula 1 (F1) world by entering a multiyear partnership with the Cadillac F1 team. It joins as its official material science partner.

The collaboration provides the Maplewood-based company with the opportunity to apply its technologies to new industrial customers.

The deal, announced on June 30, marks 3M’s debut in the F1 grid, and expands the industrial technology giant’s decades-long relationship with Cadillac’s parent company, General Motors.

Logo placement is an obvious prize of the partnership in 3M’s eyes, but the company says there are long-term developmental areas it will bring to the table. 3M says it will support:

• Engineering components to optimize car performance with lightweight materials.
• Provide real-time consultation and material evaluation during race weekends.
• Simulate real-world race conditions for the Cadillac F1 team.

“Formula 1 represents one of the most demanding test environments for materials anywhere in the world,” said Wendy Bauer, group president of 3M’s transportation and electronics business group. “Working alongside the Cadillac team allows us to push the limits of what’s possible—and translate that learning into broader applications for our customers.”

The length of the partnership wasn’t disclosed.

3M isn’t the first big Minnesota company to enter the Formula 1 space in recent years. In 2024, Ecolab announced a multiyear deal to become the official partner of the McLaren Formula 1 Team. That collaboration focuses on advancing sustainability by incorporating sustainable aviation fuel into racing. In addition, it targets McLaren’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, according to McLaren Racing.

Some of the most-notable products 3M manufactures include industrial adhesives and tapes (Scotch Tape). It also makes medical gear (N95 masks) and office supplies (Post-it Notes).

Last year, 3M reported a full-year revenue of $24.9 billion, representing a 1.5% year-over-year increase. The company sits at No. 175 on the Fortune 500 list.