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F1 has unveiled the new language that will be used to explain the technical complexities of its new 2026 regulations.

The championship is embarking on what is potentially the most significant rules overhaul in its competitive history next season, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the required adoption of 100% sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which retain the hybrid V6 layout, boast a substantially higher electrical capacity, driving key advancements in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

During grand prix events, drivers will tactically deploy battery power – potentially on hot laps – to achieve the peak lap time.

Extensive fan consultation were conducted with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to determine which terms would aid comprehension of the central aspects of the new regulations.

The primary aim was to make a range of advanced features of the racing as straightforward as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, older technical labels for certain devices – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the adjustable aero – have been abandoned in favour of descriptive names that directly explain the actual function of the innovation.

What's the New Technology?

The FIA states that racers will have more power to choose strategies regarding power usage, energy recovery, and efficiency.

The 2026 rules introduce a set of functions that will be clearly indicated on TV overlays to improve the viewers' comprehension of the strategic duel.

• Passing Mode: This supersedes the present overtaking aid. It provides a short boost of battery power accessible when a competitor is close behind the vehicle in front to facilitate an overtake.
• Boost Mode: This is a on-demand energy deployment from the energy recovery system that can be used in overtaking or defending. It grants the pilot maximum power at the click of a switch.

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

• Active Aero: Both the nose and rear wings adjust their angles – opening on the high-speed sections for minimal air resistance and increased velocity, and angling down in the bends for maximum downforce.
• Recharge: The system can recharge the energy store with energy harvested under braking, or during throttle lift at the end of straights or in corners where only reduced throttle is used.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The next-generation machines will be smaller and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a wheelbase shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight lowered by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is anticipated to be reduced by approximately a significant margin, although constructors will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Air resistance has been cut by 40%. The cars will employ moveable wing elements – front and rear wings will open on the straight sections to cut resistance and enhance velocity and click back into place for optimal grip in corners.

Pirelli tyres will continue to use the current rim size, but the tyres themselves will be slimmer, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The revised hybrid units will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in horsepower generated by the petrol engine and the battery and motor, up from about 20% electrical in the current formula.

The ERS setup is simplified through the elimination of the MGU-H, the sophisticated and pricey device that generated electricity from the exhaust turbo.

Cars will be mandated to operate on fully sustainable fuel, produced using biomass or synthetic industrial processes.