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F1 has revealed the simplified language that will be used to reference the advanced features of its new 2026 regulations.

The racing series is implementing what is considered the biggest rules overhaul in its illustrious history for the 2026 campaign, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the compulsory introduction of fully sustainable fuels.

The revised engines, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a significantly increased battery power, driving major innovations in the cars' aerodynamics.

Throughout races, competitors will strategically manage battery power – sometimes even qualifying laps – to extract the peak lap time.

Extensive fan consultation were conducted with a diverse audience, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to understand which terms would improve understanding of the key features of the upcoming rules.

The stated goal was to present a series of complex features of the competition as accessible as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, initial designations for some systems – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the adjustable aero – have been abandoned in favour of straightforward terms that directly explain the real-world effect of the system.

What's the New Technology?

The FIA states that racers will have greater control to choose strategies regarding battery management, harvesting, and conservation.

The upcoming changes feature a set of functions that will be clearly indicated on television graphics to enhance the audience's understanding of the strategic duel.

• Passing Mode: This replaces the current DRS. It provides a short boost of battery power deployable when a competitor is close behind the leading car to execute an pass.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated power boost from the ERS that can be utilized during attack or defence. It provides the driver full engine and battery energy at the push of a button.

Both of these key functions will have to be deployed strategically, as the available electrical charge is capped.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the front and rear wings adjust their angles – opening on the high-speed sections for minimal air resistance and top speed, and sealing in the turns for optimal cornering performance.
• Recharge: Drivers can recharge the energy store with power recovered from braking, or during partial power application at the conclusion of a straight or in sections where only partial power is applied.

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, overall width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight lowered by 30kg.

Overall downforce is expected to drop by approximately a significant margin, although constructors will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Aerodynamic drag has been reduced by 40%. The vehicles will feature moveable wing elements – front and rear wings will move on the straights to cut resistance and enhance velocity and revert into place for peak handling.

Pirelli tyres will retain 18-inch wheel rims, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and three centimetres on the rear.

Power Unit Revolution

The 2026 engines will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in horsepower generated by the ICE and the battery and motor, up from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The energy recovery system is simplified through the elimination of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the complicated and costly component that harvested power from the turbo.

Every car on the grid will be mandated to operate on fully sustainable fuel, manufactured from organic sources or lab-created processes.