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Formula 1 has revealed the new language that will be used to reference the intricate details of its new 2026 technical rules.

The championship is introducing what is potentially the biggest regulation change in its long history for the 2026 campaign, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the compulsory introduction of fully sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a significantly increased energy storage, driving major innovations in the cars' aerodynamics.

Throughout races, pilots will tactically deploy electrical energy – potentially on flying laps – to secure the optimal lap time.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a diverse audience, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to determine which terminology would make things clearer of the central aspects of the 2026 changes.

The stated goal was to present a series of complex new areas of the competition as straightforward as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, initial designations for some systems – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the adjustable aero – have been abandoned in favor of straightforward terms that succinctly convey the real-world effect of the technology.

Exploring the New Tech

Regulators explain that competitors will have more power to make decisions regarding power usage, regeneration, and efficiency.

The 2026 rules introduce a range of settings that will be clearly indicated on broadcast screens to enhance the audience's understanding of the strategic duel.

• Passing Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a surge of additional ERS power available when a competitor is close behind the vehicle in front to assist with an overtaking maneuver.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated power boost from the hybrid system that can be used in attack or defence. It delivers the pilot full engine and battery energy at the activation of a control.

Both of these key functions will have to be managed carefully, as the total energy is strictly limited.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the nose and rear wings move automatically – opening on the straights for reduced drag and top speed, and closing in the turns for peak grip.
• Battery Recharge: The system can harvest energy with energy harvested under braking, or during coasting at the conclusion of a straight or in corners where only partial power is applied.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The 2026 cars will be smaller and lighter relative to current models, with a wheelbase cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight lowered by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately 15-30%, although squads will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Drag has been slashed by 40%. The vehicles will utilize active aerodynamics – both wings will move on the straight sections to improve speed and enhance velocity and click back into place for peak handling.

Wheels will keep 18-inch wheel rims, but the actual tyres will be reduced in width, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30mm at the rear.

2026 Engine Regulations

The 2026 engines will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in horsepower generated by the petrol engine and the electrical system, increasing from about one-fifth electric power in the current formula.

The energy recovery system is simplified through the removal of the MGU-H, the complicated and costly component that recovered energy from the exhaust turbo.

All vehicles will be mandated to operate on fully sustainable fuel, produced using organic sources or lab-created processes.