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Formula 1 has revealed the new vocabulary that will be used to explain the technical complexities of its new 2026 rulebook.

The racing series is embarking on what is arguably the biggest regulation change in its competitive history next season, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the mandatory use of 100% sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a significantly increased energy storage, requiring key advancements in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, pilots will tactically deploy battery power – sometimes even flying laps – to secure the peak result.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a diverse audience, including new, casual and core fans, to identify which terms would aid comprehension of the main elements of the upcoming rules.

The key objective was to present a series of complex features of the competition as accessible as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, older technical labels for certain devices – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the adjustable aero – have been phased out in favour of straightforward terms that succinctly convey the primary purpose of the innovation.

What's the New Technology?

Regulators explain that competitors will have greater control to determine tactics regarding power usage, energy recovery, and conservation.

The 2026 rules feature a series of modes that will be clearly indicated on TV overlays to aid the audience's understanding of the race battle.

• Overtake Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a short boost of battery power deployable when a driver is close behind the car ahead to facilitate an pass.
• Power Mode: This is a driver-operated power boost from the ERS that can be used in offensive or defensive moves. It grants the driver full engine and battery energy at the activation of a control.

Both of these key functions will have to be deployed strategically, as the overall battery capacity is restricted.

• Active Aero: Both the nose and rear wings adjust their angles – flattening on the long straight sections for minimal air resistance and top speed, and angling down in the corners for maximum downforce.
• Energy Harvesting: The system can replenish their battery with regenerative braking, or during throttle lift at the straight's end or in corners where only limited engine output is applied.

2026 Car Specifications

The vehicles for the new era will be smaller and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a wheelbase shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight decreased by 30kg.

Overall downforce is expected to drop by approximately 15-30%, although squads will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Air resistance has been cut by 40%. The vehicles will employ moveable wing elements – both wings will open on the straights to improve speed and boost top speed and revert into place for maximum cornering performance.

Tyres will retain 18-inch wheel rims, but the actual tyres will be reduced in width, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The 2026 engines will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in horsepower generated by the ICE and the battery and motor, increasing from about one-fifth electric power this year.

The hybrid system is simplified through the elimination of the MGU-H, the sophisticated and pricey unit that generated electricity from the exhaust turbo.

Every car on the grid will be mandated to operate on 100% sustainable fuel, created from plant-based materials or lab-created processes.