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Formula 1 has unveiled the simplified terminology that will be used to describe the advanced features of its upcoming 2026 technical rules.

The championship is introducing what is potentially the largest regulation change in its illustrious history starting in 2026, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the mandatory use of fully sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a substantially higher electrical capacity, requiring significant developments in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, drivers will carefully oversee electrical energy – potentially on flying laps – to achieve the best performance.

Broad surveys were conducted with a wide range of fans, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to identify which terminology would aid comprehension of the key features of the new regulations.

The key objective was to present a set of intricate technical aspects of the sport as accessible as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, older technical labels for certain devices – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the adjustable aero – have been discarded in favour of intuitive labels that succinctly convey the primary purpose of the technology.

What's the New Technology?

The FIA states that racers will have increased agency to choose strategies regarding energy deployment, harvesting, and saving energy.

The upcoming changes feature a set of functions that will be shown on TV overlays to aid the audience's understanding of the race battle.

• Passing Mode: This takes over from the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a surge of additional ERS power available when a driver is close behind the vehicle in front to execute an overtaking maneuver.
• Power Mode: This is a manual battery discharge from the energy recovery system that can be used in attack or defence. It delivers the driver full engine and battery energy at the activation of a control.

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

• Adjustable Aero: Both the nose and rear wings adjust their angles – spreading on the long straight sections for reduced drag and increased velocity, and angling down in the corners for optimal cornering performance.
• Battery Recharge: Drivers can harvest energy with regenerative braking, or during throttle lift at the conclusion of a straight or in certain corners where only limited engine output is used.

Car Design Evolution

The 2026 cars will be reduced in size and weight than this year, with a car length shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, overall width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight reduced by 30kg.

Overall downforce is projected to decrease by approximately a significant margin, although constructors will naturally regain performance as they optimize their packages.

Drag has been reduced by 40%. The cars will feature active aerodynamics – both wings will open on the straights to reduce drag and increase straightline speed and return into place for optimal grip in corners.

Tyres will keep the current rim size, but the tyres themselves will be slimmer, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and three centimetres on the rear.

2026 Engine Regulations

The new power units will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in horsepower generated by the ICE and the electrical system, up from about 20% battery contribution this year.

The ERS setup is streamlined through the elimination of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the sophisticated and pricey component that recovered energy from the turbo.

Every car on the grid will be obliged to compete on carbon-neutral fuel, manufactured from plant-based materials or lab-created processes.