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

The championship is implementing what is considered the most significant rules overhaul 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 retain the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a substantially higher battery power, necessitating significant developments in the cars' aerodynamics.

Over a race distance, pilots will strategically manage ERS energy – including during qualifying laps – to secure the peak result.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a wide range of fans, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terminology would aid comprehension of the main elements of the new regulations.

The key objective was to present a series of complex features of the sport as easy to grasp as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, initial designations for specific components – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the moveable wings – have been phased out in favour of straightforward terms that directly explain the actual function of the technology.

Exploring the New Tech

Regulators explain that racers will have greater control to determine tactics regarding battery management, regeneration, and efficiency.

The new regulations mandate a range of settings that will be shown on television graphics to aid the fans' insight of the race battle.

• Attack Mode: This takes over from the current DRS. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy available when a driver is within one second the vehicle in front to facilitate an overtaking maneuver.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated energy deployment from the ERS that can be deployed for attack or defence. It grants the driver maximum power at the click of a switch.

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

• Adjustable Aero: Both the front and rear wings adjust their angles – spreading on the high-speed sections for minimal air resistance and increased velocity, and angling down in the corners for maximum downforce.
• Battery Recharge: The system can recharge the energy store with power recovered from braking, or during coasting at the conclusion of a straight or in certain corners where only limited engine output is required.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The next-generation machines will be reduced in size and weight than this year, with a distance between axles shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight decreased by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is expected to drop by approximately 15-30%, although constructors will undoubtedly recover some as they optimize their packages.

Aerodynamic drag has been slashed by 40%. The vehicles will feature active aerodynamics – both wings will move on the straight sections to reduce drag and increase straightline speed and return into place for maximum cornering performance.

Pirelli tyres will continue to use 18-inch rims, but the actual tyres will be reduced in width, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30mm at the rear.

Power Unit Revolution

The new power units will have an near-equal balance in energy output by the petrol engine and the ERS, a rise from about one-fifth electric power under present rules.

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

Every car on the grid will be obliged to compete on carbon-neutral fuel, produced using plant-based materials or synthetic production methods.