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F1 has unveiled the new language that will be used to reference the intricate details of its upcoming 2026 rulebook.

The sport is embarking on what is arguably the most significant technical shift in its illustrious history for the 2026 campaign, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the required adoption of fully sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a substantially higher energy storage, necessitating significant developments in the aero packages.

During grand prix events, drivers will carefully oversee battery power – including during hot laps – to extract the optimal result.

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

The stated goal was to present a range of advanced features of the racing as easy to grasp as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for certain devices – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the adjustable aero – have been phased out in favour of straightforward terms that directly explain the actual function of the system.

What's the New Technology?

According to rule-makers that drivers will have increased agency to determine tactics regarding power usage, regeneration, and efficiency.

The new regulations feature a range of settings that will be clearly indicated on broadcast screens to enhance the viewers' comprehension of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This replaces the present overtaking aid. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy deployable when a driver is less than a second the vehicle in front to assist with an pass.
• Boost Mode: This is a driver-operated battery discharge from the hybrid system that can be deployed for offensive or defensive moves. It delivers the pilot maximum power at the push of a button.

Both of these strategic tools will have to be managed carefully, as the available electrical charge is capped.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the car's wings adjust their angles – spreading on the straights for low aerodynamic resistance and higher speed, and sealing in the turns for optimal cornering performance.
• Energy Harvesting: Drivers can harvest energy with regenerative braking, or during partial power application at the end of straights or in sections where only partial power is applied.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The vehicles for the new era will be more compact and lighter than this year, with a wheelbase reduced by 200mm to 3,400mm, overall width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight lowered by 30kg.

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

Air resistance has been slashed by 40%. The cars will utilize active aerodynamics – front and rear wings will adjust on the straight sections to improve speed and enhance velocity and return into place for optimal grip in corners.

Wheels will keep the current rim size, but the actual tyres will be narrower, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30mm at the rear.

Power Unit Revolution

The 2026 engines will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in horsepower generated by the internal combustion engine and the electrical system, a rise from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The ERS setup is streamlined through the deletion of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the complicated and costly component that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

All vehicles will be mandated to operate on 100% sustainable fuel, manufactured from organic sources or synthetic industrial processes.