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Formula 1 has introduced the new terminology that will be used to describe the advanced features of its revolutionary 2026 technical rules.

The racing series is introducing what is arguably the most significant technical shift in its competitive history starting in 2026, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the required adoption of 100% sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which maintain the hybrid V6 layout, boast a significantly increased electrical capacity, necessitating key advancements in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, competitors will carefully oversee ERS energy – including during hot laps – to extract the peak performance.

Extensive fan consultation were carried out with a diverse audience, including new, casual and core fans, to understand which phrases would aid comprehension of the central aspects of the upcoming rules.

The stated goal was to present a range of advanced new areas of the racing as straightforward 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 favor of descriptive names that clearly indicate the real-world effect of the innovation.

Key Technical Innovations

The FIA states that competitors will have more power to determine tactics regarding battery management, regeneration, and efficiency.

The new regulations feature a set of functions that will be visually displayed on TV overlays to improve the viewers' comprehension of the race battle.

• Overtake Mode: This supersedes the current DRS. It provides a short boost of battery power available when a car is within one second the vehicle in front to execute an pass.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a on-demand energy deployment from the ERS that can be deployed for offensive or defensive moves. It provides the pilot peak output at the click of a switch.

Both of these strategic tools will have to be used with calculation, as the overall battery capacity is capped.

• Active Aero: Both the car's wings change configuration – spreading on the high-speed sections for minimal air resistance and top speed, and angling down in the bends for optimal cornering performance.
• Battery Recharge: Cars can harvest energy with power recovered from braking, or during throttle lift at the end of straights or in corners where only reduced throttle is used.

Car Design Evolution

The next-generation machines will be smaller and lighter than this year, with a car length cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight decreased by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is anticipated to be reduced by approximately 15-30%, although squads will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Drag has been reduced by 40%. The vehicles will utilize active aerodynamics – both wings will adjust on the straight sections to reduce drag and increase straightline speed and revert into place for optimal grip in corners.

Pirelli tyres will keep 18-inch rims, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by 25mm at the front and 30mm at the rear.

2026 Engine Regulations

The new power units will have an approximate 50-50 split in power produced by the petrol engine and the battery and motor, a rise from about 20% battery contribution in the current formula.

The hybrid system is streamlined through the removal of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the sophisticated and pricey component that generated electricity from the turbo.

Cars will be obliged to compete on 100% sustainable fuel, created from organic sources or synthetic industrial processes.