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F1 has unveiled the new terminology that will be used to reference the advanced features of its upcoming 2026 regulations.

The racing series is implementing what is potentially the most significant rules overhaul in its competitive history for the 2026 campaign, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the required adoption of eco-friendly fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which maintain the hybrid V6 layout, boast a substantially higher battery power, necessitating key advancements in the cars' aerodynamics.

Throughout races, competitors will strategically manage electrical energy – including during hot laps – to achieve the peak performance.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a wide range of fans, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to understand which terminology would aid comprehension of the main elements of the 2026 changes.

The stated goal was to make a series of complex new areas of the competition as straightforward as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, initial designations for certain devices – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the active aerodynamics – have been discarded in favor of straightforward terms that succinctly convey the primary purpose of the technology.

Exploring the New Tech

Regulators explain that competitors will have greater control to choose strategies regarding energy deployment, energy recovery, and saving energy.

The 2026 rules mandate a range of settings that will be shown on TV overlays to aid the fans' insight of the strategic duel.

• Passing Mode: This supersedes the current DRS. It provides a surge of additional ERS power available when a driver is close behind the car ahead to facilitate an pass.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated power boost from the ERS that can be deployed for offensive or defensive moves. It grants the driver maximum power at the activation of a control.

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

• Adjustable Aero: Both the nose and rear wings adjust their angles – opening on the long straight sections for minimal air resistance and top speed, and closing in the turns for maximum downforce.
• Recharge: Cars can harvest energy with regenerative braking, or during partial power application at the conclusion of a straight or in sections where only limited engine output is used.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The 2026 cars will be reduced in size and weight relative to current models, with a distance between axles cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight reduced by 30kg.

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

Aerodynamic drag has been reduced by 40%. The vehicles will utilize moveable wing elements – front and rear wings will move on the straights to improve speed and enhance velocity and revert into place for peak handling.

Pirelli tyres will continue to use 18-inch rims, but the actual tyres will be slimmer, by 25mm at the front and three centimetres on the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The new power units will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in power produced by the petrol engine and the ERS, increasing from about 20% battery contribution this year.

The energy recovery system is streamlined through the removal of the MGU-H, the sophisticated and pricey component that recovered energy from the turbo.

All vehicles will be obliged to compete on 100% sustainable fuel, produced using biomass or synthetic industrial processes.