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F1 has unveiled the simplified terminology that will be used to reference the technical complexities of its new 2026 regulations.

The sport is introducing what is arguably the most significant technical shift in its long history for the 2026 campaign, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the required adoption of eco-friendly fuels.

The new power units, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a substantially higher energy storage, necessitating significant developments in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

Throughout races, competitors will strategically manage battery power – including during flying laps – to achieve the optimal performance.

Extensive fan consultation were carried out with a diverse audience, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to determine which terminology would make things clearer of the key features of the new regulations.

The stated goal was to present a series of complex technical aspects of the competition as easy to grasp as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, initial designations for specific components – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the active aerodynamics – have been phased out in favour of intuitive labels that succinctly convey the actual function of the system.

Key Technical Innovations

The FIA states that drivers will have greater control to determine tactics regarding power usage, regeneration, and conservation.

The new regulations mandate a series of modes that will be clearly indicated on television graphics to enhance the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Passing Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a short boost of battery power accessible when a car is within one second the leading car to assist with an overtaking maneuver.
• Power Mode: This is a driver-operated energy deployment from the energy recovery system that can be deployed for attack or defence. It delivers the driver maximum power at the push of a button.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be managed carefully, as the total energy is strictly limited.

• Active Aero: Both the nose and rear wings move automatically – opening on the straights for minimal air resistance and higher speed, and angling down in the corners for peak grip.
• Energy Harvesting: Cars can replenish their battery with energy harvested under 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 reduced in size and weight than this year, with a car length reduced by 200mm to 3,400mm, overall width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight reduced by 30kg.

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

Aerodynamic drag has been slashed by 40%. The vehicles will utilize adjustable aero systems – front and rear wings will adjust on the straight sections to reduce drag and enhance velocity and revert into place for peak handling.

Wheels will retain 18-inch wheel rims, but the tyres themselves will be narrower, by 25mm at the front and three centimetres on the rear.

Power Unit Revolution

The new power units will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in horsepower generated by the internal combustion engine and the electrical system, increasing from about 20% electrical under present rules.

The hybrid system is made less complex through the deletion of the MGU-H, the sophisticated and pricey component that recovered energy from the turbo.

All vehicles will be obliged to compete on 100% sustainable fuel, created from biomass or synthetic industrial processes.