🔗 Share this article

The world of Formula 1 has introduced the new terminology that will be used to explain the technical complexities of its upcoming 2026 technical rules.

The racing series is embarking on what is potentially the largest rules overhaul in its competitive history starting in 2026, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the required adoption of fully sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which retain the hybrid V6 layout, boast a significantly increased battery power, necessitating major innovations in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

During grand prix events, competitors will tactically deploy battery power – including during hot laps – to extract the peak lap time.

Broad surveys were conducted with a mix of viewers, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to identify which terminology would make things clearer of the main elements of the upcoming rules.

The stated goal was to present a range of advanced new areas of the sport as straightforward as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for specific components – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the moveable wings – have been abandoned in preference for descriptive names that succinctly convey the real-world effect of the innovation.

What's the New Technology?

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

The new regulations introduce a series of modes that will be shown on broadcast screens to aid the viewers' comprehension of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy accessible when a car is less than a second the leading car to execute an overtake.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a manual energy deployment from the ERS that can be deployed for attack or defence. It provides the driver maximum power at the click of a switch.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be used with calculation, as the overall battery capacity is strictly limited.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the front and rear wings move automatically – spreading on the high-speed sections for low aerodynamic resistance and increased velocity, and closing in the corners for optimal cornering performance.
• Recharge: Drivers can harvest energy with power recovered from braking, or during partial power application at the conclusion of a straight or in certain corners where only partial power is applied.

Car Design Evolution

The next-generation machines will be more compact and lighter than this year, with a car length cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight decreased by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is projected to decrease by approximately 15-30%, although constructors will naturally regain performance as they develop their cars.

Aerodynamic drag has been reduced by 40%. The vehicles will feature adjustable aero systems – front and rear wings will open on the straight sections to improve speed and boost top speed and revert into place for peak handling.

Tyres will keep 18-inch wheel rims, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30mm at the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The revised hybrid units will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in energy output by the internal combustion engine and the battery and motor, a rise from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The ERS setup is streamlined through the removal of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the sophisticated and pricey device that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

All vehicles will be mandated to operate on 100% sustainable fuel, created from organic sources or synthetic production methods.