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The world of Formula 1 has revealed the official vocabulary that will be used to reference the intricate details of its revolutionary 2026 technical rules.

The racing series is implementing what is considered the biggest rules overhaul in its illustrious history next season, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the mandatory use of fully sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a substantially higher electrical capacity, requiring significant developments in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

During grand prix events, competitors will tactically deploy electrical energy – potentially on qualifying laps – to achieve the best result.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a mix of viewers, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to understand which phrases would aid comprehension of the main elements of the upcoming rules.

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

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for some systems – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the active aerodynamics – have been abandoned in favour of straightforward terms that directly explain the primary purpose of the system.

Exploring the New Tech

According to rule-makers that racers will have increased agency to determine tactics regarding battery management, energy recovery, and saving energy.

The upcoming changes introduce a set of functions that will be clearly indicated on broadcast screens to improve the viewers' comprehension of the on-track action.

• Passing Mode: This replaces the current DRS. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy accessible when a car is close behind the car ahead to assist with an overtake.
• Power Mode: This is a driver-operated battery discharge from the ERS that can be utilized during attack or defence. It delivers the pilot 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 strictly limited.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the nose and rear wings change configuration – opening on the high-speed sections for reduced drag and increased velocity, and closing in the turns for optimal cornering performance.
• Energy Harvesting: Drivers can recharge the energy store with energy harvested under braking, or during throttle lift at the straight's end or in certain corners where only partial power is used.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The vehicles for the new era will be reduced in size and weight compared to the 2025 spec, with a car length reduced by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight reduced by 30kg.

Overall downforce is expected to drop by approximately a significant margin, although squads will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Air resistance has been reduced by 40%. The cars will feature moveable wing elements – front and rear wings will adjust on the straights to cut resistance and boost top speed and revert into place for peak handling.

Pirelli tyres will continue to use 18-inch rims, but the actual tyres will be slimmer, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The revised hybrid units will have an near-equal balance in power produced by the ICE and the electrical system, increasing from about one-fifth electric power this year.

The hybrid system is simplified through the elimination of the MGU-H, the sophisticated and pricey unit that recovered energy from the exhaust turbo.

All vehicles will be mandated to operate on carbon-neutral fuel, created from biomass or lab-created processes.