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

The sport is embarking on what is arguably the largest technical shift in its illustrious history starting in 2026, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the required adoption of fully sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which keep the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a significantly increased energy storage, requiring key advancements in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

During grand prix events, drivers will carefully oversee electrical energy – including during flying laps – to extract the optimal lap time.

Broad surveys were undertaken with a mix of viewers, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to determine which terminology would make things clearer of the key features of the upcoming rules.

The primary aim was to render a range of advanced technical aspects of the sport as accessible as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for specific components – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the active aerodynamics – have been phased out in preference for descriptive names that directly explain the actual function of the innovation.

Exploring the New Tech

The FIA states that drivers will have greater control to determine tactics regarding battery management, regeneration, and efficiency.

The upcoming changes feature a series of modes that will be shown on TV overlays to aid the viewers' comprehension of the race battle.

• Passing Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a short boost of battery power deployable when a competitor is close behind the vehicle in front to execute an overtake.
• Power Mode: This is a manual energy deployment from the ERS that can be used in overtaking or defending. It delivers the driver maximum power at the push of a button.

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

• Adjustable Aero: Both the nose and rear wings change configuration – spreading on the straights for reduced drag and higher speed, and angling down in the turns for peak grip.
• Battery Recharge: Cars can replenish their battery with power recovered from braking, or during throttle lift at the straight's end or in sections where only limited engine output is used.

Car Design Evolution

The 2026 cars will be reduced in size and weight compared to the 2025 spec, with a wheelbase reduced by 200mm to 3,400mm, overall width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight decreased by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is expected to drop by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although teams will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Drag has been reduced by 40%. The vehicles will employ active aerodynamics – front and rear wings will open on the straights to reduce drag and enhance velocity and click back into place for peak handling.

Wheels will keep 18-inch wheel rims, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and three centimetres on the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

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

The energy recovery system is streamlined through the elimination of the MGU-H, the complicated and costly component that harvested power from the turbocharger.

Every car on the grid will be required to run on 100% sustainable fuel, manufactured from plant-based materials or synthetic industrial processes.