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Formula 1 has unveiled the new terminology that will be used to reference the technical complexities of its new 2026 regulations.

The sport is implementing what is arguably the largest rules overhaul in its long history starting in 2026, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the compulsory introduction of 100% sustainable fuels.

The revised engines, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a significantly increased battery power, necessitating major innovations in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, drivers will carefully oversee battery power – sometimes even flying laps – to extract the optimal result.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a diverse audience, including new, casual and core fans, to identify which terms would aid comprehension of the central aspects of the 2026 changes.

The key objective was to render a range of advanced new areas of the sport as easy to grasp as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, initial designations for certain devices – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the active aerodynamics – have been phased out in preference for straightforward terms that succinctly convey the primary purpose of the technology.

Exploring the New Tech

Regulators explain that drivers will have more power to determine tactics regarding energy deployment, energy recovery, and conservation.

The upcoming changes feature a range of settings that will be shown on television graphics to aid the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This takes over from the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy accessible when a driver is within one second the leading car to execute an overtake.
• Boost Mode: This is a on-demand power boost from the ERS that can be used in overtaking or defending. It provides the driver maximum power 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 Aero: Both the nose and rear wings change configuration – opening on the straights for minimal air resistance and top speed, and angling down in the bends for peak grip.
• Recharge: Cars can replenish their battery with power recovered from braking, or during partial power application at the conclusion of a straight or in certain corners where only partial power is used.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The 2026 cars will be reduced in size and weight than this year, with a distance between axles shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight lowered by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is projected to decrease by approximately 15-30%, although squads will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Drag has been cut by 40%. The vehicles will feature active aerodynamics – front and rear wings will move on the straight sections to improve speed and increase straightline speed and revert into place for optimal grip in corners.

Wheels will continue to use 18-inch wheel rims, but the rubber compounds will be slimmer, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and three centimetres on the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The new power units will have an near-equal balance in power produced by the internal combustion engine and the battery and motor, increasing from about one-fifth electric power in the current formula.

The ERS setup is streamlined through the removal of the MGU-H, the sophisticated and pricey unit that generated electricity from the turbo.

Cars will be required to run on carbon-neutral fuel, created from biomass or synthetic industrial processes.