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

The championship is implementing what is potentially the largest regulation change in its illustrious history next season, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the compulsory introduction of eco-friendly fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a greatly enhanced energy storage, requiring major innovations in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, pilots will carefully oversee battery power – including during qualifying laps – to secure the optimal performance.

Broad surveys were conducted with a mix of viewers, including new, casual and core fans, to determine which phrases would make things clearer of the key features of the upcoming rules.

The stated goal was to make a range of advanced new areas of the competition as accessible as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, older technical labels for some systems – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the adjustable aero – have been discarded in favor of intuitive labels that directly explain the actual function of the system.

What's the New Technology?

Regulators explain that competitors will have increased agency to choose strategies regarding battery management, regeneration, and conservation.

The new regulations mandate a set of functions that will be shown on broadcast screens to enhance the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This replaces the present overtaking aid. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy accessible when a competitor is less than a second the car ahead to facilitate an pass.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated energy deployment from the energy recovery system that can be deployed for overtaking or defending. It delivers the driver peak output at the click of a switch.

Both of these key functions will have to be used with calculation, as the total energy is strictly limited.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the front and rear wings change configuration – opening on the straights for low aerodynamic resistance and top speed, and angling down in the corners for optimal cornering performance.
• Battery Recharge: The system can replenish their battery with energy harvested under braking, or during partial power application at the conclusion of a straight or in corners where only limited engine output is applied.

Car Design Evolution

The next-generation machines will be smaller and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a car length shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight lowered by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is expected to drop by approximately a significant margin, although squads will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Aerodynamic drag has been cut by 40%. The vehicles will utilize moveable wing elements – front and rear wings will adjust on the straights to improve speed and boost top speed and revert into place for maximum cornering performance.

Pirelli tyres will continue to use 18-inch wheel rims, but the actual tyres will be reduced in width, by 25mm at the front and 30mm at the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The 2026 engines will have an near-equal balance in power produced by the internal combustion engine and the electrical system, increasing from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The ERS setup is made less complex through the removal of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the sophisticated and pricey device that recovered energy from the turbo.

Every car on the grid will be required to run on 100% sustainable fuel, created from plant-based materials or synthetic industrial processes.