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Formula 1 has introduced the simplified terminology that will be used to reference the intricate details of its upcoming 2026 rulebook.

The racing series is embarking on what is considered the largest rules overhaul in its illustrious history next season, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the mandatory use of 100% sustainable fuels.

The revised engines, which keep the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a greatly enhanced electrical capacity, requiring key advancements in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, drivers will tactically deploy ERS energy – potentially on flying laps – to achieve the best lap time.

Wide-ranging research 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 key features of the new regulations.

The primary aim was to present a range of advanced new areas of the sport as accessible as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for specific components – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the adjustable aero – have been phased out in favour of descriptive names that clearly indicate the actual function of the technology.

Key Technical Innovations

According to rule-makers that drivers will have increased agency to choose strategies regarding energy deployment, harvesting, and conservation.

The new regulations feature a range of settings that will be clearly indicated on television graphics to aid the viewers' comprehension of the race battle.

• Overtake Mode: This replaces the present overtaking aid. It provides a surge of additional ERS power available when a driver is close behind the vehicle in front to execute an overtaking maneuver.
• Boost Mode: This is a manual energy deployment from the ERS that can be deployed for offensive or defensive moves. It provides the pilot full engine and battery energy at the activation of a control.

Both of these strategic tools will have to be managed carefully, as the available electrical charge is strictly limited.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the front and rear wings move automatically – opening on the straights for minimal air resistance and top speed, and angling down in the corners for maximum downforce.
• Energy Harvesting: Drivers can replenish their battery with energy harvested under braking, or during throttle lift at the straight's end or in sections where only partial power is required.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The vehicles for the new era will be more compact and lighter relative to current models, with a wheelbase cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, overall width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight lowered by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is projected to decrease by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although teams will undoubtedly recover some as they refine their designs.

Drag has been cut by 40%. The vehicles will employ moveable wing elements – both wings will open on the straights to reduce drag and boost top speed and revert into place for optimal grip in corners.

Wheels will keep 18-inch wheel rims, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30mm at the rear.

Power Unit Revolution

The revised hybrid units will have an approximate 50-50 split in energy output by the internal combustion engine and the electrical system, increasing from about one-fifth electric power this year.

The hybrid system is simplified through the removal of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the intricate and expensive component that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

All vehicles will be required to run on fully sustainable fuel, created from biomass or synthetic production methods.