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Formula 1 has introduced the simplified terminology that will be used to describe the intricate details of its revolutionary 2026 rulebook.

The sport is implementing what is considered the most significant technical shift in its illustrious history starting in 2026, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the required adoption of eco-friendly fuels.

The revised engines, which retain the hybrid V6 layout, boast a significantly increased electrical capacity, necessitating significant developments in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

Throughout races, pilots will tactically deploy battery power – including during flying laps – to extract the optimal result.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a mix of viewers, including new, casual and core fans, to understand which terms would make things clearer of the main elements of the upcoming rules.

The key objective was to make a set of intricate features of the sport as straightforward as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, older technical labels for some systems – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the adjustable aero – have been phased out in favour of straightforward terms that succinctly convey the primary purpose of the innovation.

What's the New Technology?

Regulators explain that racers will have more power to determine tactics regarding power usage, harvesting, and saving energy.

The upcoming changes feature a range of settings that will be shown on TV overlays to aid the audience's understanding of the strategic duel.

• Overtake Mode: This takes over from the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a short boost of battery power available when a car is within one second the car ahead to assist with an overtaking maneuver.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated energy deployment from the energy recovery system that can be used in attack or defence. It provides the driver maximum power at the activation of a control.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be managed carefully, as the overall battery capacity is restricted.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the nose and rear wings change configuration – spreading on the straights for low aerodynamic resistance and top speed, and closing in the corners for peak grip.
• Energy Harvesting: Drivers can replenish their battery with power recovered from braking, or during throttle lift at the end of straights or in sections where only reduced throttle is used.

2026 Car Specifications

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

Total aerodynamic grip is projected to decrease by approximately 15-30%, although squads will undoubtedly recover some as they optimize their packages.

Aerodynamic drag has been cut by 40%. The cars will feature moveable wing elements – both wings will adjust on the straights to reduce drag and increase straightline speed and click back into place for optimal grip in corners.

Wheels will continue to use the current rim size, but the actual tyres will be narrower, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and three centimetres on the rear.

2026 Engine Regulations

The revised hybrid units will have an near-equal balance in horsepower generated by the petrol engine and the ERS, a rise from about one-fifth electric power this year.

The hybrid system is simplified through the removal of the MGU-H, the sophisticated and pricey component that harvested power from the turbocharger.

All vehicles will be required to run on carbon-neutral fuel, produced using plant-based materials or synthetic industrial processes.