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Formula 1 has revealed the new vocabulary that will be used to reference the intricate details of its new 2026 technical rules.

The sport is introducing what is considered the most significant regulation change in its competitive history for the 2026 campaign, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the compulsory introduction of fully sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which keep the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a significantly increased electrical capacity, necessitating major innovations in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

Throughout races, drivers will carefully oversee battery power – including during hot laps – to extract the optimal result.

Broad surveys were carried out with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terms would aid comprehension of the key features of the upcoming rules.

The primary aim was to render a range of advanced features of the competition as easy to grasp as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for some systems – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the moveable wings – have been phased out in preference for descriptive names that directly explain the real-world effect of the technology.

Key Technical Innovations

The FIA states that drivers will have more power to make decisions regarding energy deployment, energy recovery, and conservation.

The upcoming changes mandate a set of functions that will be shown on broadcast screens to aid the viewers' comprehension of the on-track action.

• Passing Mode: This takes over from the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy available when a competitor is less than a second the leading car to facilitate an overtaking maneuver.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a on-demand power boost from the ERS that can be deployed for overtaking or defending. It grants the pilot maximum power at the click of a switch.

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

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the car's wings move automatically – spreading on the straights for reduced drag and higher speed, and angling down in the turns for peak grip.
• Recharge: The system can recharge the energy store with power recovered from braking, or during throttle lift at the straight's end or in corners where only partial power is required.

What's Changing on the Cars?

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

Total aerodynamic grip is anticipated to be reduced by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although constructors will inevitably claw this back as they refine their designs.

Air resistance has been reduced by 40%. The cars will utilize adjustable aero systems – both wings will adjust on the straights to cut resistance and enhance velocity and return into place for peak handling.

Wheels will continue to use the current rim size, but the actual tyres will be reduced in width, by 25mm at the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The revised hybrid units will have an near-equal balance in power produced by the ICE and the battery and motor, up from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The ERS setup is streamlined through the deletion of the MGU-H, the sophisticated and pricey device that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

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