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F1 has revealed the simplified terminology that will be used to describe the intricate details of its upcoming 2026 technical rules.

The racing series is introducing what is arguably the biggest technical shift in its illustrious history next season, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the mandatory use of 100% sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which keep the hybrid V6 layout, boast a significantly increased electrical capacity, driving key advancements in the cars' aerodynamics.

Throughout races, drivers will strategically manage electrical energy – including during hot laps – to achieve the best lap time.

Extensive fan consultation were carried out with a diverse audience, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to identify which phrases would aid comprehension of the key features of the new regulations.

The stated goal was to make a range of advanced new areas of the sport as easy to grasp as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, older technical labels for specific components – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the active aerodynamics – have been discarded in favor of intuitive labels that succinctly convey the actual function of the system.

Key Technical Innovations

According to rule-makers that competitors will have increased agency to determine tactics regarding power usage, harvesting, and conservation.

The new regulations feature a series of modes that will be shown on broadcast screens to improve the fans' insight of the strategic duel.

• Passing Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy accessible when a driver is within one second the leading car to facilitate an overtake.
• Boost Mode: This is a driver-operated battery discharge from the energy recovery system that can be deployed for overtaking or defending. It grants the driver maximum power at the activation of a control.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be deployed strategically, as the available electrical charge is restricted.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the car's wings change configuration – flattening on the straights for reduced drag and higher speed, and closing in the corners for optimal cornering performance.
• Battery Recharge: The system can recharge the energy store with energy harvested under braking, or during throttle lift at the conclusion of a straight or in corners where only reduced throttle is used.

Car Design Evolution

The 2026 cars will be reduced in size and weight than this year, with a car length cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight decreased by 30kg.

Overall downforce is expected to drop by approximately 15-30%, although teams will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Aerodynamic drag has been reduced by 40%. The cars will utilize moveable wing elements – both wings will move on the straights to cut resistance and boost top speed and click back into place for optimal grip in corners.

Pirelli tyres will continue to use 18-inch rims, but the actual tyres will be reduced in width, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and three centimetres on the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The 2026 engines will have an approximate 50-50 split in energy output by the internal combustion engine and the electrical system, up from about 20% electrical this year.

The energy recovery system is made less complex 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 100% sustainable fuel, produced using biomass or lab-created processes.