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

The sport is introducing what is considered the biggest rules overhaul in its illustrious history next season, featuring revised car and engine specifications 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, necessitating significant developments in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, pilots will strategically manage battery power – sometimes even flying laps – to extract the optimal result.

Extensive fan consultation were conducted with a wide range of fans, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to understand which terminology would make things clearer of the central aspects of the new regulations.

The primary aim was to render a range of advanced technical aspects of the racing as straightforward as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, initial designations for specific components – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the active aerodynamics – have been discarded in preference for intuitive labels that clearly indicate the primary purpose of the innovation.

Key Technical Innovations

According to rule-makers that racers will have greater control to make decisions regarding battery management, regeneration, and conservation.

The 2026 rules feature a range of settings that will be clearly indicated on television graphics to improve the fans' insight of the race battle.

• Passing Mode: This supersedes the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a surge of additional ERS power available when a competitor is within one second the car ahead to execute an pass.
• Power Mode: This is a on-demand battery discharge from the ERS that can be deployed for attack or defence. It delivers the driver peak output at the click of a switch.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be managed carefully, as the overall battery capacity is capped.

• Active Aero: Both the front and rear wings change configuration – spreading on the long straight sections for minimal air resistance and top speed, and closing in the turns for optimal cornering performance.
• Battery Recharge: Drivers can replenish their battery with power recovered from braking, or during partial power application at the conclusion of a straight or in corners where only reduced throttle is used.

Car Design Evolution

The vehicles for the new era will be more compact and lighter relative to current models, with a distance between axles shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, overall width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight decreased by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is anticipated to be reduced by approximately 15-30%, although squads will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Drag has been cut by 40%. The cars will employ active aerodynamics – front and rear wings will move on the straight sections to cut resistance and boost top speed and return into place for peak handling.

Pirelli tyres will continue to use 18-inch rims, but the actual tyres will be narrower, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The revised hybrid units will have an near-equal balance in horsepower generated by the internal combustion engine and the electrical system, increasing from about 20% electrical this year.

The hybrid system is simplified through the removal of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the complicated and costly unit that harvested power from the exhaust turbo.

Cars will be required to run on 100% sustainable fuel, produced using plant-based materials or lab-created processes.