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Formula 1 has revealed the official terminology that will be used to describe the advanced features of its revolutionary 2026 regulations.

The racing series is implementing what is arguably the largest regulation change in its competitive history next season, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the mandatory use of eco-friendly fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which retain the hybrid V6 layout, boast a greatly enhanced battery power, necessitating major innovations in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

During grand prix events, drivers will tactically deploy ERS energy – including during hot laps – to achieve the peak result.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a wide range of fans, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terms would aid comprehension of the key features of the 2026 changes.

The primary aim was to present a range of advanced new areas of the competition as easy to grasp as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, initial designations for some systems – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the active aerodynamics – have been abandoned in preference for intuitive labels that clearly indicate the primary purpose of the technology.

Exploring the New Tech

According to rule-makers that competitors will have more power to choose strategies regarding power usage, harvesting, and conservation.

The new regulations mandate a range of settings 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 burst of extra electrical energy deployable when a competitor is within one second the vehicle in front to execute an overtaking maneuver.
• Boost Mode: This is a manual energy deployment from the hybrid system that can be deployed for attack or defence. It provides the driver maximum power at the activation of a control.

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

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the nose and rear wings adjust their angles – spreading on the straights for reduced drag and increased velocity, and sealing in the corners for maximum downforce.
• Battery Recharge: Drivers can replenish their battery with power recovered from braking, or during partial power application at the end of straights or in sections where only limited engine output is used.

Car Design Evolution

The next-generation machines will be reduced in size and weight relative to current models, with a wheelbase shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight reduced by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is projected to decrease by approximately a significant margin, although squads will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Aerodynamic drag has been cut by 40%. The cars will employ adjustable aero systems – both wings will open on the straights to improve speed and boost top speed and revert into place for peak handling.

Wheels will retain the current rim size, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The revised hybrid units will have an approximate 50-50 split in horsepower generated by the ICE and the battery and motor, up from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

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

Cars will be obliged to compete on fully sustainable fuel, created from biomass or synthetic industrial processes.