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The world of Formula 1 has unveiled the simplified vocabulary that will be used to describe the advanced features of its new 2026 rulebook.

The sport is embarking on what is arguably the biggest rules overhaul in its illustrious history next season, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the required adoption of eco-friendly fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which keep the hybrid V6 layout, boast a greatly enhanced battery power, requiring major innovations in the cars' aerodynamics.

Throughout races, drivers will tactically deploy ERS energy – sometimes even qualifying laps – to achieve the peak lap time.

Broad surveys were conducted with a wide range of fans, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terms would improve understanding of the key features of the new regulations.

The stated goal was to present a range of advanced technical aspects of the competition as accessible as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, initial designations for certain devices – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the adjustable aero – have been abandoned in preference for intuitive labels that directly explain the primary purpose of the system.

Exploring the New Tech

The FIA states that racers will have more power to choose strategies regarding power usage, harvesting, and efficiency.

The upcoming changes feature a set of functions that will be clearly indicated on television graphics to aid the fans' insight of the race battle.

• Passing Mode: This takes over from the present overtaking aid. It provides a surge of additional ERS power available when a driver is within one second the leading car to facilitate an overtaking maneuver.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated power boost from the hybrid system that can be utilized during attack or defence. It delivers the pilot full engine and battery energy at the push of a button.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be deployed strategically, as the total energy is restricted.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the car's wings change configuration – spreading on the straights for minimal air resistance and higher speed, and closing in the turns for optimal cornering performance.
• Energy Harvesting: Cars can harvest energy with energy harvested under braking, or during throttle lift at the straight's end or in corners where only limited engine output is applied.

Car Design Evolution

The next-generation machines will be reduced in size and weight relative to current models, with a car length shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight lowered by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although squads will naturally regain performance as they optimize their packages.

Air resistance has been cut by 40%. The cars will utilize active aerodynamics – front and rear wings will adjust on the straight sections to cut resistance and enhance velocity and return into place for maximum cornering performance.

Wheels will continue to use the current rim size, but the actual tyres will be slimmer, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30mm at the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The 2026 engines will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in power produced by the internal combustion engine and the battery and motor, up from about one-fifth electric power this year.

The hybrid system is made less complex through the deletion of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the intricate and expensive component that recovered energy from the turbo.

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