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Formula 1 has unveiled the simplified terminology that will be used to explain the technical complexities of its new 2026 rulebook.

The racing series is introducing what is arguably the largest rules overhaul in its illustrious history starting in 2026, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the compulsory introduction of 100% sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which keep the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a substantially higher energy storage, driving key advancements in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

Throughout races, drivers will tactically deploy electrical energy – including during qualifying laps – to achieve the best lap time.

Wide-ranging research were conducted with a wide range of fans, including long-time followers and newcomers, to understand which terminology would make things clearer of the key features of the upcoming rules.

The stated goal was to render a series of complex technical aspects of the racing as easy to grasp as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, initial designations for certain devices – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the active aerodynamics – have been discarded in preference for descriptive names that clearly indicate the actual function of the system.

What's the New Technology?

According to rule-makers that drivers will have greater control to make decisions regarding energy deployment, regeneration, and saving energy.

The 2026 rules mandate a series of modes that will be visually displayed on broadcast screens to improve the audience's understanding of the on-track action.

• Attack Mode: This replaces the present overtaking aid. It provides a short boost of battery power accessible when a driver is within one second the vehicle in front to execute an overtaking maneuver.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a on-demand energy deployment from the ERS that can be used in offensive or defensive moves. It delivers the driver full engine and battery energy at the push of a button.

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

• Active Aero: Both the front and rear wings move automatically – spreading on the straights for reduced drag and top speed, and angling down in the bends for optimal cornering performance.
• Energy Harvesting: The system can replenish their battery with energy harvested under braking, or during coasting at the end of straights or in certain corners where only reduced throttle is applied.

What's Changing on the Cars?

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

Overall downforce is projected to decrease by approximately 15-30%, although constructors will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Aerodynamic drag has been cut by 40%. The cars will feature moveable wing elements – both wings will move on the straight sections to improve speed and enhance velocity and return into place for optimal grip in corners.

Wheels will retain 18-inch rims, but the actual tyres will be narrower, by 25mm at the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The 2026 engines will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in power produced by the petrol engine and the electrical system, up from about 20% electrical this year.

The ERS setup is made less complex through the deletion of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the sophisticated and pricey component that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

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