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F1 has introduced the simplified terminology that will be used to reference the advanced features of its new 2026 regulations.

The sport is implementing what is considered the largest rules overhaul in its long history starting in 2026, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the compulsory introduction of fully sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a substantially higher electrical capacity, driving significant developments in the aero packages.

During grand prix events, pilots will tactically deploy electrical energy – potentially on hot laps – to achieve the peak lap time.

Extensive fan consultation were conducted with a wide range of fans, including long-time followers and newcomers, to determine which terminology would make things clearer of the central aspects of the upcoming rules.

The key objective was to present a series of complex new areas of the competition as straightforward as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for some systems – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the active aerodynamics – have been discarded in preference for descriptive names that clearly indicate the real-world effect of the technology.

Exploring the New Tech

According to rule-makers that competitors will have increased agency to determine tactics regarding power usage, harvesting, and saving energy.

The new regulations mandate a range of settings that will be shown on TV overlays to enhance the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This supersedes the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a short boost of battery power deployable when a competitor is close behind the vehicle in front to assist with an overtake.
• Boost Mode: This is a manual power boost from the ERS that can be deployed for overtaking or defending. It provides the driver maximum power at the activation of a control.

Both of these strategic tools will have to be deployed strategically, as the overall battery capacity is strictly limited.

• Active Aero: Both the front and rear wings move automatically – flattening on the long straight sections for minimal air resistance and top speed, and sealing in the bends for optimal cornering performance.
• Energy Harvesting: The system can harvest energy with power recovered from braking, or during partial power application at the straight's end or in corners where only partial power is required.

2026 Car Specifications

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

Total aerodynamic grip is expected to drop by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although constructors will inevitably claw this back as they develop their cars.

Aerodynamic drag has been slashed by 40%. The cars will utilize adjustable aero systems – front and rear wings will adjust on the straights to reduce drag and increase straightline speed and revert into place for peak handling.

Pirelli tyres will retain 18-inch rims, but the rubber compounds will be slimmer, by 25mm at the front and 30mm at the rear.

2026 Engine Regulations

The revised hybrid units will have an near-equal balance in horsepower generated by the internal combustion engine and the electrical system, a rise from about 20% electrical in the current formula.

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

Every car on the grid will be required to run on fully sustainable fuel, produced using biomass or lab-created processes.