🔗 Share this article

Formula 1 has introduced the new language that will be used to explain the advanced features of its upcoming 2026 regulations.

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

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which maintain the hybrid V6 layout, boast a significantly increased electrical capacity, driving significant developments in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, drivers will carefully oversee ERS energy – sometimes even qualifying laps – to secure the optimal lap time.

Wide-ranging research were undertaken with a wide range of fans, including new, casual and core fans, to understand which phrases would improve understanding of the main elements of the new regulations.

The key objective was to make a set of intricate new areas of the racing as accessible as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for specific components – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the active aerodynamics – have been abandoned in preference for intuitive labels that directly explain the real-world effect of the technology.

Key Technical Innovations

According to rule-makers that competitors will have more power to choose strategies regarding battery management, energy recovery, and saving energy.

The 2026 rules mandate a set of functions that will be clearly indicated on broadcast screens to improve the audience's understanding of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This takes over from the current DRS. It provides a short boost of battery power available when a driver is close behind the vehicle in front to assist with an overtaking maneuver.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated battery discharge from the ERS that can be deployed for offensive or defensive moves. It provides the driver maximum power at the click of a switch.

Both of these key functions will have to be managed carefully, as the total energy is capped.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the front and rear wings adjust their angles – flattening on the long straight sections for low aerodynamic resistance and higher speed, and closing in the corners for maximum downforce.
• Energy Harvesting: The system can harvest energy with power recovered from braking, or during coasting at the conclusion of a straight or in corners where only partial power 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 narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight decreased by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is projected to decrease by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although teams will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Aerodynamic drag has been slashed by 40%. The cars will utilize moveable wing elements – both wings will move on the straights to cut resistance and increase straightline speed and revert into place for maximum cornering performance.

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

Power Unit Revolution

The revised hybrid units will have an approximate 50-50 split in energy output by the petrol engine and the ERS, up from about 20% electrical under present rules.

The hybrid system is made less complex through the deletion of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the sophisticated and pricey device that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

Every car on the grid will be required to run on fully sustainable fuel, created from plant-based materials or synthetic industrial processes.