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Formula 1 has introduced the new language that will be used to describe the technical complexities of its upcoming 2026 regulations.

The sport is introducing what is potentially the biggest technical shift in its illustrious history starting in 2026, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the mandatory use of 100% sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which maintain the hybrid V6 layout, boast a significantly increased energy storage, necessitating significant developments in the cars' aerodynamics.

Throughout races, drivers will tactically deploy ERS energy – including during qualifying laps – to secure the best performance.

Wide-ranging research were carried out with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to understand which terminology would improve understanding of the key features of the new regulations.

The key objective was to present a series of complex technical aspects of the racing as accessible as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, initial designations for specific components – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the adjustable aero – have been abandoned in favor of descriptive names that succinctly convey the real-world effect of the system.

Key Technical Innovations

The FIA states that competitors will have more power to determine tactics regarding battery management, energy recovery, and efficiency.

The 2026 rules feature a set of functions that will be clearly indicated on broadcast screens to enhance the fans' insight of the strategic duel.

• Overtake Mode: This supersedes the current DRS. It provides a surge of additional ERS power accessible when a car is within one second the car ahead to assist with an pass.
• Power Mode: This is a driver-operated power boost from the energy recovery system that can be deployed for overtaking or defending. It delivers the driver maximum power at the click of a switch.

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

• Adjustable Aero: Both the front and rear wings move automatically – spreading on the long straight sections for low aerodynamic resistance and increased velocity, and sealing in the turns for maximum downforce.
• Recharge: The system can replenish their battery with regenerative braking, or during throttle lift at the end of straights or in corners where only reduced throttle is used.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The vehicles for the new era will be smaller and lighter than this year, with a distance between axles reduced by 200mm to 3,400mm, overall width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight decreased by 30kg.

Overall downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately 15-30%, although constructors will inevitably claw this back as they refine their designs.

Aerodynamic drag has been slashed by 40%. The cars will utilize adjustable aero systems – both wings will open on the straights to improve speed and enhance velocity and revert into place for maximum cornering performance.

Tyres will keep 18-inch wheel rims, but the actual tyres will be narrower, by 25mm at the front and 30mm at the rear.

Power Unit Revolution

The 2026 engines will have an near-equal balance in horsepower generated by the internal combustion engine and the electrical system, a rise from about one-fifth electric power this year.

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

Cars will be mandated to operate on carbon-neutral fuel, manufactured from plant-based materials or synthetic industrial processes.