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The world of Formula 1 has unveiled the new terminology that will be used to reference the advanced features of its revolutionary 2026 regulations.

The racing series is introducing what is arguably the most significant rules overhaul in its long history for the 2026 campaign, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the compulsory introduction of 100% sustainable fuels.

The revised engines, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a significantly increased energy storage, requiring key advancements in the aero packages.

Throughout races, competitors will tactically deploy battery power – potentially on qualifying laps – to achieve the peak lap time.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to determine which terminology would improve understanding of the central aspects of the new regulations.

The primary aim was to present a set of intricate new areas of the racing as straightforward as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, initial designations for some systems – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the adjustable aero – have been phased out in favour of intuitive labels that succinctly convey the actual function of the system.

What's the New Technology?

According to rule-makers that competitors will have more power to choose strategies regarding power usage, energy recovery, and saving energy.

The upcoming changes feature a series of modes that will be visually displayed on broadcast screens to improve the audience's understanding of the race battle.

• Overtake Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy available when a car is within one second the leading car to assist with an overtake.
• Boost Mode: This is a driver-operated power boost from the energy recovery system that can be utilized during offensive or defensive moves. It provides the driver peak output at the activation of a control.

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

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the car's wings move automatically – spreading on the straights for reduced drag and higher speed, and angling down in the corners for peak grip.
• Recharge: Cars can replenish their battery with energy harvested under braking, or during coasting at the straight's end or in corners where only reduced throttle is used.

2026 Car Specifications

The next-generation machines will be reduced in size and weight compared to the 2025 spec, with a car length cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight decreased by 30kg.

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

Aerodynamic drag has been cut by 40%. The cars will employ adjustable aero systems – front and rear wings will open on the straight sections to cut resistance and boost top speed and revert into place for peak handling.

Tyres will keep the current rim size, but the actual tyres will be slimmer, by 25mm at the front and 30mm at the rear.

Power Unit Revolution

The 2026 engines will have an approximate 50-50 split in energy output by the petrol engine and the ERS, a rise from about 20% electrical in the current formula.

The ERS setup is simplified through the deletion of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the complicated and costly component that recovered energy from the exhaust turbo.

All vehicles will be required to run on 100% sustainable fuel, produced using organic sources or synthetic industrial processes.