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F1 has unveiled the official vocabulary that will be used to describe the intricate details of its new 2026 technical rules.

The racing series is implementing what is arguably the most significant regulation change in its illustrious history starting in 2026, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the mandatory use of 100% sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which retain the hybrid V6 layout, boast a greatly enhanced electrical capacity, requiring major innovations in the aero packages.

During grand prix events, pilots will strategically manage ERS energy – potentially on flying laps – to extract the best result.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a wide range of fans, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to determine which phrases would aid comprehension of the central aspects of the upcoming rules.

The stated goal was to present a range of advanced new areas of the racing as straightforward as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, older technical labels for certain devices – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the adjustable aero – have been abandoned in favor of straightforward terms that directly explain the actual function of the system.

What's the New Technology?

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

The new regulations feature a series of modes that will be shown on broadcast screens to aid the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Attack Mode: This takes over from the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a surge of additional ERS power available when a competitor is within one second the car ahead to facilitate an overtake.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a on-demand energy deployment from the energy recovery system that can be deployed for offensive or defensive moves. It delivers the driver full engine and battery energy at the activation of a control.

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

• Adjustable Aero: Both the car's wings move automatically – opening on the straights for reduced drag and higher speed, and sealing in the bends for peak grip.
• Energy Harvesting: Drivers can harvest energy with power recovered from braking, or during coasting at the end of straights or in sections where only reduced throttle is required.

Car Design Evolution

The vehicles for the new era will be more compact and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a distance between axles shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight decreased by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately a significant margin, although squads will naturally regain performance as they optimize their packages.

Drag has been reduced by 40%. The vehicles will employ active aerodynamics – front and rear wings will adjust on the straights to reduce drag and enhance velocity and revert into place for optimal grip in corners.

Pirelli tyres will keep the current rim size, but the actual tyres will be reduced in width, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The revised hybrid units will have an near-equal balance in power produced by the ICE and the battery and motor, increasing from about one-fifth electric power under present rules.

The energy recovery system is simplified through the elimination of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the intricate and expensive device that recovered energy from the turbo.

Every car on the grid will be obliged to compete on carbon-neutral fuel, produced using organic sources or lab-created processes.