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F1 has introduced the simplified terminology that will be used to describe the advanced features of its upcoming 2026 regulations.

The championship is implementing what is arguably the biggest regulation change in its illustrious history next season, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the compulsory introduction of eco-friendly fuels.

The revised engines, which keep the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a significantly increased battery power, requiring significant developments in the cars' aerodynamics.

Over a race distance, competitors will tactically deploy battery power – sometimes even qualifying laps – to achieve the best result.

Broad surveys were carried out with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to understand which terms would aid comprehension of the main elements of the new regulations.

The key objective was to render a range of advanced technical aspects of the racing as straightforward as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, older technical labels for some systems – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the moveable wings – have been phased out in preference for descriptive names that succinctly convey the real-world effect of the innovation.

Exploring the New Tech

According to rule-makers that racers will have more power to make decisions regarding energy deployment, harvesting, and saving energy.

The upcoming changes introduce a series of modes that will be clearly indicated on television graphics to enhance the audience's understanding of the on-track action.

• Passing Mode: This takes over from the present overtaking aid. It provides a short boost of battery power available when a driver is within one second the leading car to facilitate an overtaking maneuver.
• Power Mode: This is a driver-operated energy deployment from the energy recovery system that can be used in overtaking or defending. It delivers the driver full engine and battery energy at the activation of a control.

Both of these key functions will have to be managed carefully, as the overall battery capacity is capped.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the front and rear wings adjust their angles – flattening on the high-speed sections for low aerodynamic resistance and increased velocity, and sealing in the turns for peak grip.
• Recharge: The system can recharge the energy store with power recovered from braking, or during throttle lift at the end of straights or in corners where only partial power is applied.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The vehicles for the new era will be more compact and lighter than this year, with a wheelbase shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight lowered by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is expected to drop by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although teams will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Drag has been slashed by 40%. The vehicles will employ adjustable aero systems – front and rear wings will open on the straights to improve speed and enhance velocity and revert into place for maximum cornering performance.

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

Power Unit Revolution

The new power units will have an near-equal balance in horsepower generated by the internal combustion engine and the ERS, a rise from about 20% electrical in the current formula.

The energy recovery system is made less complex through the elimination of the MGU-H, the intricate and expensive component that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

All vehicles will be mandated to operate on carbon-neutral fuel, manufactured from organic sources or synthetic industrial processes.