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The world of Formula 1 has unveiled the new language that will be used to reference the advanced features of its upcoming 2026 rulebook.

The championship is implementing what is considered the largest regulation change in its illustrious history next season, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the mandatory use of eco-friendly fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a substantially higher battery power, driving major innovations in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

Over a race distance, pilots will strategically manage ERS energy – sometimes even qualifying laps – to achieve the best performance.

Broad surveys were conducted with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to understand which terms would aid comprehension of the key features of the 2026 changes.

The stated goal was to present a series of complex technical aspects of the competition as easy to grasp as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, initial designations for some systems – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the active aerodynamics – have been abandoned in favor of descriptive names that clearly indicate the actual function of the system.

Exploring the New Tech

According to rule-makers that drivers will have greater control to determine tactics regarding energy deployment, energy recovery, and conservation.

The 2026 rules mandate a range of settings that will be clearly indicated on television graphics to enhance the viewers' comprehension of the on-track action.

• Passing Mode: This takes over from the present overtaking aid. It provides a surge of additional ERS power available when a car is within one second the car ahead to facilitate an overtaking maneuver.
• Power Mode: This is a driver-operated energy deployment from the energy recovery system that can be used in offensive or defensive moves. It grants the pilot maximum power at the activation of a control.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be deployed strategically, as the available electrical charge is restricted.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the front and rear wings move automatically – spreading on the long straight sections for low aerodynamic resistance and higher speed, and sealing in the corners for optimal cornering performance.
• Recharge: Drivers can recharge the energy store with power recovered from braking, or during partial power application at the straight's end or in certain corners where only partial power is used.

Car Design Evolution

The vehicles for the new era will be smaller and lighter than this year, with a car length reduced by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight lowered by 30kg.

Overall downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately 15-30%, although teams will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Drag has been cut by 40%. The cars will employ moveable wing elements – front and rear wings will move on the straights to cut resistance and enhance velocity and click back into place for peak handling.

Pirelli tyres will keep the current rim size, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

Power Unit Revolution

The 2026 engines will have an approximate 50-50 split in power produced by the petrol engine and the electrical system, up from about 20% battery contribution in the current formula.

The energy recovery system is simplified through the deletion of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the intricate and expensive device that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

Cars will be mandated to operate on carbon-neutral fuel, manufactured from biomass or lab-created processes.