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The world of Formula 1 has introduced the new vocabulary that will be used to describe the intricate details of its upcoming 2026 regulations.

The racing series is embarking on what is potentially the most significant technical shift in its long history starting in 2026, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the required adoption of 100% sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a substantially higher electrical capacity, necessitating significant developments in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

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

Broad surveys were conducted with a mix of viewers, including new, casual and core fans, to identify which terms would improve understanding of the main elements of the new regulations.

The primary aim was to render a range of advanced technical aspects of the racing as accessible as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for some systems – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the moveable wings – have been discarded in favour of descriptive names that succinctly convey the actual function of the innovation.

Key Technical Innovations

According to rule-makers that drivers will have increased agency to choose strategies regarding battery management, regeneration, and saving energy.

The 2026 rules mandate a range of settings that will be shown on TV overlays to improve the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This takes over from the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a surge of additional ERS power deployable when a driver is within one second the car ahead to facilitate an overtaking maneuver.
• Power Mode: This is a manual battery discharge from the hybrid system that can be utilized during attack or defence. It grants the pilot peak output at the push of a button.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be used with calculation, as the total energy is restricted.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the front and rear wings adjust their angles – flattening on the high-speed sections for minimal air resistance and higher speed, and closing in the bends for maximum downforce.
• Battery Recharge: Cars can harvest energy with regenerative braking, or during coasting at the conclusion of a straight or in sections where only partial power is used.

2026 Car Specifications

The 2026 cars will be more compact and lighter relative to current models, with a wheelbase shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight lowered by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately 15-30%, although constructors will inevitably claw this back as they develop their cars.

Aerodynamic drag has been cut by 40%. The vehicles will utilize adjustable aero systems – front and rear wings will adjust on the straight sections to reduce drag and enhance velocity and revert into place for maximum cornering performance.

Tyres will keep 18-inch rims, but the tyres themselves will be reduced in width, by 25mm at the front and 30mm at the rear.

Power Unit Revolution

The new power units will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in power produced by the petrol engine and the battery and motor, a rise from about 20% battery contribution in the current formula.

The hybrid system is made less complex through the removal of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the sophisticated and pricey unit that harvested power from the exhaust turbo.

Every car on the grid will be mandated to operate on carbon-neutral fuel, produced using organic sources or lab-created processes.