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Formula 1 has introduced the simplified terminology that will be used to describe the advanced features of its new 2026 rulebook.

The racing series is implementing what is potentially the largest rules overhaul in its long history starting in 2026, 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 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a significantly increased energy storage, driving significant developments in the cars' aerodynamics.

Throughout races, drivers will tactically deploy ERS energy – including during hot laps – to extract the optimal result.

Extensive fan consultation were carried out with a wide range of fans, including new, casual and core fans, to determine which phrases would make things clearer of the main elements of the upcoming rules.

The key objective was to render a set of intricate features of the competition as straightforward as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for some systems – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the adjustable aero – have been phased out in favour of straightforward terms that clearly indicate the primary purpose of the system.

What's the New Technology?

According to rule-makers that racers will have more power to make decisions regarding energy deployment, harvesting, and conservation.

The 2026 rules mandate a range of settings that will be shown on TV overlays to aid the viewers' comprehension of the race battle.

• Overtake Mode: This supersedes the current DRS. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy accessible when a driver is within one second the car ahead to execute an overtake.
• Boost Mode: This is a on-demand power boost from the hybrid system that can be used in attack or defence. It provides the pilot peak output at the activation of a control.

Both of these key functions will have to be used with calculation, as the total energy is strictly limited.

• Active Aero: Both the front and rear wings change configuration – spreading on the straights for minimal air resistance and higher speed, and closing in the bends for optimal cornering performance.
• Battery Recharge: Cars can recharge the energy store with energy harvested under braking, or during partial power application at the end of straights or in corners where only reduced throttle is used.

Car Design Evolution

The 2026 cars will be reduced in size and weight relative to current models, with a distance between axles shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, width reduced 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 naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Aerodynamic drag has been reduced by 40%. The vehicles will feature adjustable aero systems – both wings will move on the straight sections to reduce drag and enhance velocity and click back into place for maximum cornering performance.

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

Power Unit Revolution

The new power units will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in energy output by the petrol engine and the electrical system, up from about one-fifth electric power under present rules.

The hybrid system is made less complex through the deletion of the MGU-H, the complicated and costly component that harvested power from the exhaust turbo.

All vehicles will be obliged to compete on fully sustainable fuel, produced using plant-based materials or synthetic industrial processes.