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Formula 1 has introduced the new vocabulary that will be used to describe the technical complexities of its new 2026 rulebook.

The championship is introducing what is potentially 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 new power units, which keep the hybrid V6 layout, boast a substantially higher battery power, requiring significant developments in the cars' aerodynamics.

Over a race distance, competitors will tactically deploy electrical energy – potentially on qualifying laps – to extract the best lap time.

Extensive fan consultation were conducted with a diverse audience, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terms would improve understanding of the main elements of the 2026 changes.

The stated goal was to render a range of advanced new areas of the racing as straightforward as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, initial designations for certain devices – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the adjustable aero – have been phased out in preference for descriptive names that succinctly convey the real-world effect of the innovation.

Key Technical Innovations

According to rule-makers that drivers will have more power to choose strategies regarding energy deployment, regeneration, and saving energy.

The 2026 rules mandate a set of functions that will be shown on broadcast screens to enhance the viewers' comprehension of the race battle.

• Passing Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a short boost of battery power available when a competitor is close behind the leading car to facilitate an overtaking maneuver.
• Boost Mode: This is a on-demand battery discharge from the energy recovery system that can be utilized during attack or defence. It grants the driver full engine and battery energy at the click of a switch.

Both of these strategic tools will have to be used with calculation, as the overall battery capacity is strictly limited.

• Active Aero: Both the car's wings change configuration – opening on the high-speed sections for minimal air resistance and increased velocity, and closing in the corners for maximum downforce.
• Recharge: Drivers can harvest energy with power recovered from braking, or during coasting at the conclusion of a straight or in certain corners where only limited engine output is applied.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The next-generation machines will be more compact and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a wheelbase shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight reduced by 30kg.

Overall downforce is expected to drop by approximately 15-30%, although constructors will inevitably claw this back as they develop their cars.

Aerodynamic drag has been reduced by 40%. The vehicles will employ adjustable aero systems – both wings will move on the straight sections to improve speed and boost top speed and click back into place for maximum cornering performance.

Pirelli tyres will retain 18-inch wheel rims, but the actual tyres will be slimmer, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The new power units will have an approximate 50-50 split in horsepower generated by the petrol engine and the ERS, up from about 20% battery contribution in the current formula.

The energy recovery system is streamlined through the removal of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the complicated and costly component that recovered energy from the turbo.

Every car on the grid will be required to run on carbon-neutral fuel, created from biomass or synthetic industrial processes.