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Formula 1 has introduced the simplified terminology that will be used to describe the intricate details of its revolutionary 2026 technical rules.

The sport is embarking on what is potentially the largest technical shift in its competitive history starting in 2026, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the compulsory introduction of eco-friendly fuels.

The new power units, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a significantly increased energy storage, requiring key advancements in the aero packages.

Throughout races, pilots will carefully oversee ERS energy – potentially on qualifying laps – to achieve the best performance.

Broad surveys were carried out with a wide range of fans, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which phrases would improve understanding of the main elements of the upcoming rules.

The key objective was to present a series of complex features of the competition as easy to grasp as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, older technical labels for some systems – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the adjustable aero – have been discarded in favour of descriptive names that clearly indicate the actual function of the technology.

Exploring the New Tech

According to rule-makers that drivers will have more power to determine tactics regarding battery management, energy recovery, and conservation.

The 2026 rules introduce a series of modes that will be clearly indicated on TV overlays to enhance the viewers' comprehension of the strategic duel.

• Passing Mode: This takes over from the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a short boost of battery power deployable when a car is close behind the vehicle in front to facilitate an overtaking maneuver.
• Boost Mode: This is a manual power boost from the hybrid system that can be used in overtaking or defending. It delivers the driver maximum power at the activation of a control.

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

• Active Aero: Both the nose and rear wings move automatically – opening on the high-speed sections for low aerodynamic resistance and increased velocity, and angling down in the corners for maximum downforce.
• Battery Recharge: Drivers can replenish their battery with energy harvested under braking, or during throttle lift at the conclusion of a straight or in corners where only limited engine output is required.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The vehicles for the new era will be smaller and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a car length cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, overall width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight decreased by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is expected to drop by approximately a significant margin, although constructors will undoubtedly recover some as they optimize their packages.

Aerodynamic drag has been cut by 40%. The cars will feature moveable wing elements – both wings will open on the straight sections to improve speed and boost top speed and click back into place for maximum cornering performance.

Wheels will keep the current rim size, but the tyres themselves will be slimmer, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30mm at the rear.

2026 Engine Regulations

The new power units will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in power produced by the ICE and the ERS, increasing from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The hybrid system is simplified through the deletion of the MGU-H, the intricate and expensive device that harvested power from the exhaust turbo.

Every car on the grid will be mandated to operate on carbon-neutral fuel, created from organic sources or synthetic production methods.