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The world of Formula 1 has introduced the official terminology that will be used to explain the technical complexities of its upcoming 2026 technical rules.

The racing series is implementing what is arguably the most significant regulation change in its illustrious history for the 2026 campaign, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the compulsory introduction of eco-friendly fuels.

The revised engines, which keep the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a significantly increased battery power, driving major innovations in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, competitors will tactically deploy electrical energy – sometimes even qualifying laps – to achieve the best performance.

Broad surveys were carried out with a wide range of fans, including new, casual and core fans, to determine which terminology would improve understanding of the main elements of the new regulations.

The primary aim was to render a series of complex new areas of the racing as accessible as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for some systems – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the adjustable aero – have been discarded in favour of intuitive labels that directly explain the actual function of the innovation.

Key Technical Innovations

According to rule-makers that drivers will have more power to choose strategies regarding battery management, energy recovery, and conservation.

The new regulations introduce a series of modes that will be clearly indicated on television graphics to improve 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 available when a driver is close behind the vehicle in front to facilitate an pass.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated energy deployment from the energy recovery system that can be deployed for offensive or defensive moves. It grants the driver full engine and battery energy at the activation of a control.

Both of these key functions will have to be used with calculation, as the available electrical charge is strictly limited.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the car's wings move automatically – flattening on the high-speed sections for low aerodynamic resistance and top speed, and sealing in the bends for maximum downforce.
• Battery Recharge: The system can recharge the energy store with regenerative braking, or during partial power application at the straight's end or in sections where only reduced throttle is required.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The next-generation machines will be more compact and lighter than this year, with a distance between axles reduced by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight decreased by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is projected to decrease by approximately a significant margin, although teams will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Aerodynamic drag has been cut by 40%. The vehicles will employ adjustable aero systems – both wings will open on the straight sections to cut resistance and enhance velocity and return into place for maximum cornering performance.

Tyres will continue to use 18-inch wheel rims, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The 2026 engines will have an near-equal balance in energy output by the petrol engine and the ERS, a rise from about 20% electrical under present rules.

The ERS setup is simplified through the elimination of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the intricate and expensive device that recovered energy from the turbo.

Every car on the grid will be mandated to operate on carbon-neutral fuel, created from biomass or synthetic production methods.