🔗 Share this article

The world of Formula 1 has introduced the simplified vocabulary that will be used to explain the advanced features of its revolutionary 2026 regulations.

The championship is introducing what is considered the largest regulation change in its long history starting in 2026, 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 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a greatly enhanced battery power, driving major innovations in the aero packages.

Throughout races, drivers will tactically deploy ERS energy – sometimes even hot laps – to achieve the best result.

Extensive fan consultation were conducted with a diverse audience, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to understand which phrases would make things clearer of the central aspects of the new regulations.

The key objective was to present a set of intricate features of the sport as accessible as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for some systems – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the adjustable aero – have been phased out in preference for intuitive labels that directly explain the primary purpose of the system.

What's the New Technology?

The FIA states that competitors will have more power to determine tactics regarding battery management, harvesting, and saving energy.

The new regulations feature a range of settings that will be visually displayed on broadcast screens to improve the fans' insight of the race battle.

• Passing Mode: This replaces the present overtaking aid. It provides a short boost of battery power deployable when a competitor is close behind the car ahead to assist with an pass.
• Boost Mode: This is a on-demand power boost from the hybrid system that can be utilized during offensive or defensive moves. It delivers the pilot full engine and battery energy at the click of a switch.

Both of these key functions will have to be managed carefully, as the overall battery capacity is restricted.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the front and rear wings change configuration – flattening on the long straight sections for minimal air resistance and top speed, and closing in the turns for optimal cornering performance.
• Battery Recharge: The system can replenish their battery with regenerative braking, or during coasting at the end of straights or in sections where only limited engine output is used.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The next-generation machines will be more compact and lighter than this year, with a distance between axles cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight reduced by 30kg.

Overall downforce is expected to drop by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although constructors will inevitably claw this back as they refine their designs.

Drag has been reduced by 40%. The cars will employ moveable wing elements – front and rear wings will move on the straight sections to cut resistance and boost top speed and click back into place for peak handling.

Pirelli tyres will retain 18-inch wheel rims, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

Power Unit Revolution

The new power units will have an approximate 50-50 split in horsepower generated by the ICE and the ERS, up from about 20% electrical in the current formula.

The ERS setup is simplified through the elimination of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the sophisticated and pricey device that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

Cars will be mandated to operate on fully sustainable fuel, produced using biomass or lab-created processes.