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The world of Formula 1 has introduced the new terminology that will be used to explain the advanced features of its upcoming 2026 technical rules.

The racing series is implementing what is considered the largest rules overhaul in its illustrious history for the 2026 campaign, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the mandatory use of fully sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which keep the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a significantly increased electrical capacity, necessitating major innovations in the cars' aerodynamics.

Throughout races, competitors will tactically deploy battery power – sometimes even hot laps – to achieve the optimal lap time.

Wide-ranging research were carried out with a diverse audience, including long-time followers and newcomers, to determine which terms would improve understanding of the key features of the 2026 changes.

The key objective was to present a range of advanced features of the competition as straightforward as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for specific components – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the active aerodynamics – have been phased out in favor of intuitive labels that directly explain the real-world effect of the innovation.

Key Technical Innovations

The FIA states that drivers will have greater control to determine tactics regarding power usage, harvesting, and efficiency.

The upcoming changes introduce a series of modes that will be shown on television graphics to enhance the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This takes over from the present overtaking aid. It provides a surge of additional ERS power deployable when a competitor is within one second the vehicle in front to assist with an pass.
• Boost Mode: This is a driver-operated battery discharge from the energy recovery system that can be utilized during offensive or defensive moves. It provides the driver full engine and battery energy at the activation of a control.

Both of these key functions will have to be deployed strategically, as the available electrical charge is capped.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the front and rear wings change configuration – flattening on the long straight sections for reduced drag and increased velocity, and angling down in the turns for maximum downforce.
• Battery Recharge: Cars can replenish their battery with power recovered from braking, or during partial power application at the end of straights or in corners where only reduced throttle is applied.

2026 Car Specifications

The next-generation machines will be more compact and lighter relative to current models, with a wheelbase shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight decreased by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is expected to drop by approximately 15-30%, although teams will inevitably claw this back as they develop their cars.

Aerodynamic drag has been reduced by 40%. The cars will utilize adjustable aero systems – front and rear wings will adjust on the straight sections to cut resistance and boost top speed and revert into place for peak handling.

Tyres will retain the current rim size, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The 2026 engines will have an near-equal balance in horsepower generated by the ICE and the electrical system, up from about 20% battery contribution this year.

The ERS setup is streamlined through the removal of the MGU-H, the complicated and costly device that harvested power from the turbocharger.

Cars will be mandated to operate on carbon-neutral fuel, manufactured from plant-based materials or synthetic industrial processes.