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F1 has introduced the new terminology that will be used to reference the advanced features of its new 2026 regulations.

The championship is embarking on what is potentially the most significant technical shift in its long history next season, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the compulsory introduction of 100% sustainable fuels.

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

During grand prix events, pilots will carefully oversee battery power – including during qualifying laps – to extract the best result.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a diverse audience, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to understand which terminology would make things clearer of the central aspects of the 2026 changes.

The primary aim was to render a series of complex features of the sport as easy to grasp as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for certain devices – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the moveable wings – have been discarded in favor of intuitive labels that succinctly convey the actual function of the innovation.

Exploring the New Tech

The FIA states that racers will have increased agency to choose strategies regarding energy deployment, harvesting, and conservation.

The 2026 rules feature a range of settings that will be visually displayed on broadcast screens to enhance the viewers' comprehension of the strategic duel.

• Attack Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a surge of additional ERS power accessible when a car is close behind the vehicle in front to assist with an overtake.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated energy deployment from the ERS that can be deployed for attack or defence. It delivers the driver peak output at the push of a button.

Both of these strategic tools will have to be managed carefully, as the total energy is strictly limited.

• Active Aero: Both the car's wings change configuration – opening on the straights for low aerodynamic resistance and increased velocity, and sealing in the bends for maximum downforce.
• Energy Harvesting: Cars can recharge the energy store with regenerative braking, or during coasting at the conclusion of a straight or in sections where only limited engine output is required.

Car Design Evolution

The vehicles for the new era will be smaller and lighter than this year, with a car length cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight reduced by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately 15-30%, although constructors will naturally regain performance as they develop their cars.

Air resistance has been cut by 40%. The cars will utilize moveable wing elements – both wings will adjust on the straights to cut resistance and boost top speed and return into place for maximum cornering performance.

Wheels will retain the current rim size, but the actual tyres will be slimmer, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

Power Unit Revolution

The 2026 engines will have an near-equal balance in power produced by the ICE and the ERS, up from about 20% battery contribution in the current formula.

The hybrid system is streamlined through the elimination of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the complicated and costly device that recovered energy from the exhaust turbo.

All vehicles will be mandated to operate on fully sustainable fuel, manufactured from organic sources or synthetic production methods.