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The world of Formula 1 has revealed the simplified language that will be used to reference the technical complexities of its new 2026 rulebook.

The racing series is implementing what is potentially the biggest technical shift in its long history next season, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the mandatory use of fully sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which retain the hybrid V6 layout, boast a significantly increased battery power, necessitating significant developments in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, drivers will strategically manage electrical energy – including during hot laps – to secure the best result.

Broad surveys were undertaken with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terms would improve understanding of the central aspects of the new regulations.

The primary aim was to present a set of intricate technical aspects of the sport as straightforward as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for some systems – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the moveable wings – have been discarded in favor of intuitive labels that clearly indicate the actual function of the innovation.

What's the New Technology?

According to rule-makers that racers will have more power to determine tactics regarding battery management, energy recovery, and efficiency.

The upcoming changes feature a range of settings that will be clearly indicated on television graphics to enhance the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Attack Mode: This takes over from the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy accessible when a driver is less than a second the leading car to assist with an overtake.
• Boost Mode: This is a driver-operated power boost from the hybrid system that can be used in offensive or defensive moves. It grants the pilot full engine and battery energy at the click of a switch.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be managed carefully, as the overall battery capacity is strictly limited.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the front and rear wings move automatically – flattening on the high-speed sections for low aerodynamic resistance and top speed, and closing in the turns for optimal cornering performance.
• Battery Recharge: Cars can replenish their battery with regenerative braking, or during partial power application at the straight's end or in certain 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 cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight lowered by 30kg.

Overall downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately 15-30%, although squads will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Aerodynamic drag has been reduced by 40%. The vehicles will utilize adjustable aero systems – both wings will open on the straights to cut resistance and increase straightline speed and return into place for peak handling.

Pirelli tyres will keep 18-inch rims, but the tyres themselves will be slimmer, by 25mm at the front and three centimetres on the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The revised hybrid units will have an near-equal balance in energy output by the ICE and the ERS, up from about 20% electrical under present rules.

The ERS setup is made less complex through the deletion of the MGU-H, the intricate and expensive unit that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

All vehicles will be required to run on fully sustainable fuel, created from plant-based materials or synthetic production methods.