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F1 has revealed the new terminology that will be used to describe the technical complexities of its new 2026 rulebook.

The sport is embarking on what is arguably the largest technical shift in its illustrious history starting in 2026, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the compulsory introduction of 100% sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a substantially higher electrical capacity, requiring major innovations in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

Throughout races, competitors will tactically deploy battery power – potentially on flying laps – to extract the optimal result.

Broad surveys were conducted with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terminology would aid comprehension of the central aspects of the new regulations.

The stated goal was to make a set of intricate features of the sport as accessible as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, older technical labels for certain devices – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the active aerodynamics – have been abandoned in favour of intuitive labels that succinctly convey the real-world effect of the system.

What's the New Technology?

The FIA states that competitors will have more power to determine tactics regarding power usage, harvesting, and efficiency.

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

• Attack Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a surge of additional ERS power deployable when a competitor is less than a second the vehicle in front to assist with an overtaking maneuver.
• Boost Mode: This is a manual energy deployment from the ERS that can be used in offensive or defensive moves. It grants the driver maximum power at the activation of a control.

Both of these strategic tools will have to be used with calculation, as the overall battery capacity is strictly limited.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the car's wings move automatically – opening on the high-speed sections for low aerodynamic resistance and increased velocity, and sealing in the turns for peak grip.
• Energy Harvesting: Drivers can harvest energy with regenerative braking, or during throttle lift at the conclusion of a straight or in corners where only reduced throttle is used.

2026 Car Specifications

The 2026 cars will be smaller and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a distance between axles cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight decreased by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is expected to drop by approximately a significant margin, although squads will undoubtedly recover some as they refine their designs.

Air resistance has been slashed by 40%. The vehicles will utilize adjustable aero systems – front and rear wings will move on the straights to improve speed and enhance velocity and revert into place for optimal grip in corners.

Pirelli tyres will retain 18-inch rims, but the tyres themselves will be slimmer, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The revised hybrid units will have an near-equal balance in energy output by the petrol engine and the battery and motor, a rise from about 20% electrical this year.

The ERS setup is simplified through the deletion of the MGU-H, the sophisticated and pricey component that harvested power from the turbocharger.

Cars will be obliged to compete on 100% sustainable fuel, produced using plant-based materials or lab-created processes.