🔗 Share this article

F1 has unveiled the simplified vocabulary that will be used to explain the advanced features of its revolutionary 2026 technical rules.

The racing series is introducing what is considered the largest technical shift in its competitive history for the 2026 campaign, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the compulsory introduction of eco-friendly fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which keep the hybrid V6 layout, boast a significantly increased energy storage, driving significant developments in the aero packages.

During grand prix events, competitors will carefully oversee electrical energy – including during qualifying laps – to achieve the peak lap time.

Extensive fan consultation were conducted with a mix of viewers, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to understand which terminology would aid comprehension of the central aspects of the upcoming rules.

The stated goal was to present a range of advanced features of the competition as easy to grasp as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, older technical labels for some systems – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the moveable wings – have been discarded in favour of straightforward terms that succinctly convey the primary purpose of the system.

What's the New Technology?

The FIA states that drivers will have more power to determine tactics regarding power usage, energy recovery, and saving energy.

The new regulations introduce a series of modes that will be shown on television graphics to aid the fans' insight of the strategic duel.

• Passing Mode: This supersedes the present overtaking aid. It provides a surge of additional ERS power deployable when a driver is within one second the leading car to assist with an pass.
• Power Mode: This is a manual battery discharge from the ERS that can be utilized during attack or defence. It grants the driver peak output at the click of a switch.

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

• Active Aero: Both the nose and rear wings adjust their angles – flattening on the long straight sections for reduced drag and top speed, and sealing in the bends for peak grip.
• Recharge: Cars can recharge the energy store with power recovered from braking, or during throttle lift at the conclusion of a straight or in certain corners where only partial power is applied.

Car Design Evolution

The vehicles for the new era will be more compact and lighter relative to current models, with a distance between axles shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight reduced by 30kg.

Overall downforce is expected to drop by approximately a significant margin, although squads will naturally regain performance as they optimize their packages.

Aerodynamic drag has been slashed by 40%. The cars will utilize moveable wing elements – front and rear wings will open on the straight sections to improve speed and boost top speed and return into place for peak handling.

Tyres will keep the current rim size, but the rubber compounds will be slimmer, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The new power units will have an approximate 50-50 split in horsepower generated by the internal combustion engine and the battery and motor, increasing from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The hybrid system is simplified through the elimination of the MGU-H, the intricate and expensive device that harvested power from the exhaust turbo.

Cars will be obliged to compete on 100% sustainable fuel, created from biomass or lab-created processes.