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F1 has introduced the official language that will be used to reference the technical complexities of its revolutionary 2026 rulebook.

The racing series is introducing what is arguably the biggest technical shift in its long history starting in 2026, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the mandatory use of 100% sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which keep the hybrid V6 layout, boast a significantly increased energy storage, requiring significant developments in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, pilots will tactically deploy ERS energy – potentially on qualifying laps – to achieve the optimal lap time.

Wide-ranging research were carried out with a diverse audience, including new, casual and core fans, to identify which terms would aid comprehension of the main elements of the 2026 changes.

The primary aim was to make a set of intricate technical aspects of the racing as easy to grasp as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, initial designations for some systems – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the active aerodynamics – have been abandoned in preference for descriptive names that directly explain the real-world effect of the system.

Key Technical Innovations

According to rule-makers that competitors will have more power to determine tactics regarding battery management, regeneration, and saving energy.

The new regulations mandate a series of modes that will be clearly indicated on TV overlays to enhance the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Passing Mode: This takes over from the current DRS. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy deployable when a competitor is close behind the vehicle in front to assist with an overtaking maneuver.
• Boost Mode: This is a manual power boost from the hybrid system that can be deployed for overtaking or defending. It delivers the pilot maximum power at the activation of a control.

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

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the nose and rear wings change configuration – flattening on the straights for low aerodynamic resistance and higher speed, and angling down in the bends for maximum downforce.
• Battery Recharge: Cars can replenish their battery with regenerative braking, or during partial power application at the straight's end or in corners where only partial power is applied.

Car Design Evolution

The vehicles for the new era will be smaller and lighter relative to current models, with a car length shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, overall width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight decreased by 30kg.

Overall downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately 15-30%, although constructors will undoubtedly recover some as they refine their designs.

Air resistance has been reduced by 40%. The vehicles will employ moveable wing elements – front and rear wings will move on the straight sections to reduce drag and increase straightline speed and click back into place for maximum cornering performance.

Wheels will retain 18-inch wheel rims, but the rubber compounds will be narrower, by 25mm at the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The new power units will have an approximate 50-50 split in horsepower generated by the internal combustion engine and the ERS, a rise from about one-fifth electric power under present rules.

The ERS setup is streamlined through the deletion of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the complicated and costly device that generated electricity from the exhaust turbo.

All vehicles will be required to run on fully sustainable fuel, produced using plant-based materials or synthetic production methods.