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F1 has introduced the official terminology that will be used to explain the advanced features of its upcoming 2026 rulebook.

The sport is introducing what is potentially the biggest regulation change in its illustrious history starting in 2026, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the compulsory introduction of eco-friendly fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a substantially higher electrical capacity, requiring major innovations in the aero packages.

Throughout races, pilots will tactically deploy battery power – potentially on flying laps – to achieve the best result.

Wide-ranging research were carried out with a diverse audience, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terms would aid comprehension of the central aspects of the 2026 changes.

The stated goal was to make a range of advanced new areas of the racing as straightforward as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, older technical labels for specific components – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the adjustable aero – have been abandoned in preference for intuitive labels that clearly indicate the real-world effect of the technology.

Exploring the New Tech

According to rule-makers that racers will have increased agency to determine tactics regarding power usage, energy recovery, and efficiency.

The 2026 rules feature a set of functions that will be clearly indicated on television graphics to enhance the viewers' comprehension of the race battle.

• Attack Mode: This replaces the present overtaking aid. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy accessible when a driver is close behind the vehicle in front to assist with an pass.
• Power Mode: This is a manual power boost from the ERS that can be used in attack or defence. It grants the pilot full engine and battery energy at the push of a button.

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

• Active Aero: Both the nose and rear wings adjust their angles – flattening on the straights for low aerodynamic resistance and higher speed, and closing in the turns for peak grip.
• Energy Harvesting: The system can harvest energy with regenerative braking, or during partial power application at the end of straights or in certain corners where only partial power is applied.

Car Design Evolution

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

Total aerodynamic grip is projected to decrease by approximately 15-30%, although constructors will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Air resistance has been slashed by 40%. The cars will employ adjustable aero systems – front and rear wings will move on the straights to reduce drag and boost top speed and click back into place for peak handling.

Wheels will keep 18-inch wheel rims, but the tyres themselves will be reduced in width, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The new power units will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in energy output by the internal combustion engine and the battery and motor, up from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The ERS setup is made less complex through the removal of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the complicated and costly device that generated electricity from the exhaust turbo.

All vehicles will be obliged to compete on carbon-neutral fuel, manufactured from organic sources or synthetic production methods.