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Formula 1 has revealed the new terminology that will be used to explain the intricate details of its revolutionary 2026 rulebook.

The sport is implementing what is considered the largest regulation change in its illustrious history for the 2026 campaign, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the mandatory use of eco-friendly fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a significantly increased battery power, necessitating key advancements in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

During grand prix events, drivers will strategically manage electrical energy – potentially on hot laps – to secure the peak lap time.

Broad surveys were conducted with a mix of viewers, including new, casual and core fans, to understand which terminology would make things clearer of the key features of the 2026 changes.

The stated goal was to make a set of intricate features of the racing as accessible as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, initial designations for certain devices – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the moveable wings – have been abandoned in preference for descriptive names that succinctly convey the actual function of the system.

Key Technical Innovations

The FIA states that racers will have greater control to make decisions regarding battery management, energy recovery, and saving energy.

The new regulations introduce a set of functions that will be shown on TV overlays to aid the fans' insight of the strategic duel.

• Overtake Mode: This replaces the present overtaking aid. It provides a surge of additional ERS power available when a competitor is within one second the vehicle in front to facilitate an overtake.
• Power Mode: This is a on-demand battery discharge from the hybrid system that can be used in overtaking or defending. It grants the pilot maximum power at the click of a switch.

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

• Adjustable Aero: Both the nose and rear wings adjust their angles – spreading on the high-speed sections for low aerodynamic resistance and top speed, and angling down in the bends for maximum downforce.
• Recharge: The system can replenish their battery with energy harvested under braking, or during coasting at the conclusion of a straight or in certain corners where only reduced throttle is used.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The vehicles for the new era will be more compact and lighter relative to current models, with a distance between axles shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight lowered by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is projected to decrease by approximately 15-30%, although squads will inevitably claw this back as they refine their designs.

Drag has been cut by 40%. The cars will employ active aerodynamics – both wings will adjust on the straights to cut resistance and enhance velocity and click back into place for peak handling.

Tyres will continue to use 18-inch rims, but the rubber compounds will be slimmer, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30mm at the rear.

Power Unit Revolution

The 2026 engines will have an approximate 50-50 split in energy output by the ICE and the electrical system, a rise from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The energy recovery system is made less complex through the removal of the MGU-H, the complicated and costly device that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

Cars will be obliged to compete on fully sustainable fuel, created from biomass or lab-created processes.