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Formula 1 has unveiled the simplified vocabulary that will be used to explain the intricate details of its new 2026 regulations.

The racing series is embarking on what is arguably the biggest technical shift in its illustrious history for the 2026 campaign, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the mandatory use of 100% sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which keep the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a greatly enhanced energy storage, driving key advancements in the cars' aerodynamics.

Throughout races, competitors will strategically manage ERS energy – sometimes even qualifying laps – to achieve the peak performance.

Extensive fan consultation were conducted with a wide range of fans, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to identify which terms would make things clearer of the central aspects of the 2026 changes.

The primary aim was to render a series of complex features of the competition as straightforward as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, initial designations for some systems – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the active aerodynamics – have been abandoned in favor of intuitive labels that clearly indicate the real-world effect of the technology.

What's the New Technology?

According to rule-makers that competitors will have increased agency to make decisions regarding battery management, regeneration, and conservation.

The 2026 rules introduce a set of functions that will be shown on broadcast screens to enhance the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a surge of additional ERS power available when a car is less than a second the car ahead to facilitate an overtake.
• Boost Mode: This is a on-demand power boost from the energy recovery system that can be deployed for overtaking or defending. It grants the pilot maximum power at the push of a button.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be used with calculation, as the overall battery capacity is restricted.

• Active Aero: Both the nose and rear wings change configuration – flattening on the long straight sections for minimal air resistance and higher speed, and angling down in the bends for peak grip.
• Energy Harvesting: Cars can replenish their battery with energy harvested under braking, or during throttle lift at the straight's end or in sections where only partial power is required.

2026 Car Specifications

The 2026 cars will be reduced in size and weight relative to current models, with a wheelbase cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, overall width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight lowered by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is anticipated to be reduced by approximately a significant margin, although teams will inevitably claw this back as they optimize their packages.

Air resistance has been reduced by 40%. The cars will feature active aerodynamics – both wings will move on the straight sections to improve speed and increase straightline speed and click back into place for optimal grip in corners.

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

Power Unit Revolution

The new power units will have an near-equal balance in power produced by the internal combustion engine and the battery and motor, up from about 20% electrical this year.

The energy recovery system is made less complex through the elimination of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the intricate and expensive component that harvested power from the turbocharger.

Every car on the grid will be obliged to compete on carbon-neutral fuel, produced using organic sources or lab-created processes.