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The world of Formula 1 has unveiled the simplified language that will be used to reference the advanced features of its new 2026 technical rules.

The racing series is embarking on what is potentially the most significant technical shift in its competitive history starting in 2026, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the mandatory use of eco-friendly fuels.

The new power units, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a substantially higher electrical capacity, necessitating significant developments in the aero packages.

Throughout races, competitors will tactically deploy electrical energy – potentially on flying laps – to extract the best performance.

Wide-ranging research were carried out with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terminology would make things clearer of the main elements of the new regulations.

The primary aim was to present a series of complex technical aspects of the sport as easy to grasp as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, older technical labels for certain devices – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the active aerodynamics – have been discarded in preference for straightforward terms that succinctly convey the primary purpose of the innovation.

What's the New Technology?

Regulators explain that racers will have more power to determine tactics regarding power usage, regeneration, and conservation.

The new regulations introduce a set of functions that will be shown on television graphics to enhance the viewers' comprehension of the race battle.

• Overtake Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a short boost of battery power available when a car is close behind the car ahead to facilitate an overtake.
• Power Mode: This is a on-demand energy deployment from the energy recovery system that can be utilized during attack or defence. It grants the driver full engine and battery energy at the push of a button.

Both of these key functions will have to be used with calculation, as the overall battery capacity is restricted.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the car's wings change configuration – spreading on the long straight sections for reduced drag and higher speed, and angling down in the bends for peak grip.
• Recharge: The system can harvest energy with power recovered from braking, or during partial power application at the conclusion of a straight or in certain corners where only reduced throttle is required.

2026 Car Specifications

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

Cumulative downforce is projected to decrease by approximately a significant margin, although squads will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Air resistance has been slashed by 40%. The vehicles will utilize active aerodynamics – front and rear wings will move on the straight sections to reduce drag and enhance velocity and click back into place for maximum cornering performance.

Pirelli tyres will continue to use 18-inch wheel rims, but the tyres themselves will be slimmer, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30mm at the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The new power units will have an near-equal balance in power produced by the ICE and the ERS, up from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The energy recovery system is simplified through the removal of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the complicated and costly device that harvested power from the turbo.

All vehicles will be required to run on 100% sustainable fuel, produced using biomass or synthetic production methods.