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F1 has unveiled the new language that will be used to explain the technical complexities of its upcoming 2026 technical rules.

The championship is embarking on what is potentially the largest technical shift in its illustrious history starting in 2026, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the mandatory use of eco-friendly fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a greatly enhanced battery power, driving major innovations in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

Over a race distance, competitors will tactically deploy electrical energy – including during flying laps – to achieve the peak result.

Wide-ranging research were undertaken with a mix of viewers, including new, casual and core fans, to identify which terminology would make things clearer of the central aspects of the 2026 changes.

The primary aim was to make a series of complex technical aspects of the racing as accessible as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, initial designations for specific components – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the adjustable aero – have been abandoned in favor of descriptive names that clearly indicate the actual function of the technology.

What's the New Technology?

The FIA states that drivers will have increased agency to determine tactics regarding battery management, energy recovery, and conservation.

The 2026 rules mandate a series of modes that will be visually displayed on broadcast screens to aid the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy accessible when a competitor is within one second the car ahead to execute an overtaking maneuver.
• Boost Mode: This is a on-demand battery discharge from the hybrid system that can be deployed for offensive or defensive moves. It grants the driver peak output at the click of a switch.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be deployed strategically, as the total energy is capped.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the car's wings adjust their angles – spreading on the straights for reduced drag and top speed, and angling down in the corners for peak grip.
• Recharge: Drivers can replenish their battery with power recovered from braking, or during throttle lift at the straight's end or in corners where only limited engine output is required.

2026 Car Specifications

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

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

Aerodynamic drag has been cut by 40%. The vehicles will feature active aerodynamics – both wings will adjust on the straight sections to cut resistance and boost top speed and return into place for maximum cornering performance.

Tyres will keep 18-inch rims, but the actual tyres will be slimmer, by 25mm at the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The 2026 engines will have an near-equal balance in energy output by the internal combustion engine and the battery and motor, increasing from about 20% electrical in the current formula.

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

All vehicles will be required to run on 100% sustainable fuel, produced using organic sources or lab-created processes.