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Formula 1 has unveiled the new language that will be used to explain the advanced features of its new 2026 regulations.

The championship is embarking on what is arguably the most significant rules overhaul in its illustrious history starting in 2026, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the compulsory introduction of eco-friendly fuels.

The new power units, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a significantly increased energy storage, necessitating major innovations in the aero packages.

Over a race distance, drivers will strategically manage electrical energy – sometimes even qualifying laps – to extract the optimal performance.

Extensive fan consultation were carried out with a mix of viewers, including new, casual and core fans, to understand which terminology would improve understanding of the key features of the 2026 changes.

The stated goal was to present a set of intricate technical aspects of the racing as easy to grasp as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for certain devices – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the active aerodynamics – have been discarded in favour of intuitive labels that succinctly convey the primary purpose of the innovation.

Exploring the New Tech

According to rule-makers that drivers will have increased agency to choose strategies regarding battery management, harvesting, and conservation.

The 2026 rules mandate a range of settings that will be shown on TV overlays to improve the audience's understanding of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This takes over from the current DRS. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy deployable when a car is close behind the vehicle in front to facilitate an overtake.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a on-demand battery discharge from the energy recovery system that can be utilized during overtaking or defending. It provides the pilot peak output at the activation of a control.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be managed carefully, as the overall battery capacity is capped.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the front and rear wings change configuration – spreading on the long straight sections for minimal air resistance and top speed, and angling down in the corners for maximum downforce.
• Battery Recharge: Drivers can replenish their battery with energy harvested under braking, or during coasting at the conclusion of a straight or in certain corners where only partial power is used.

What's Changing on the Cars?

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

Total aerodynamic grip is projected to decrease by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although constructors will undoubtedly recover some as they refine their designs.

Drag has been reduced by 40%. The cars will feature moveable wing elements – both wings will open on the straight sections to improve speed and boost top speed and click back into place for peak handling.

Wheels will keep 18-inch wheel rims, but the tyres themselves will be slimmer, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

Power Unit Revolution

The 2026 engines will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in power produced by the ICE and the ERS, up from about one-fifth electric power in the current formula.

The ERS setup is made less complex through the deletion of the MGU-H, the intricate and expensive component that recovered energy from the turbocharger.

Cars will be obliged to compete on fully sustainable fuel, created from biomass or synthetic production methods.