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The world of Formula 1 has revealed the official vocabulary that will be used to describe the advanced features of its revolutionary 2026 rulebook.

The racing series is introducing what is potentially the largest rules overhaul in its long history next season, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the required adoption of eco-friendly fuels.

The new power units, which keep the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a substantially higher electrical capacity, driving significant developments in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

During grand prix events, pilots will tactically deploy electrical energy – including during flying laps – to extract the best performance.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a wide range of fans, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which phrases would aid comprehension of the main elements of the new regulations.

The primary aim was to make a range of advanced new areas of the competition as accessible as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, older technical labels for some systems – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the adjustable aero – have been discarded in favor of straightforward terms that succinctly convey the real-world effect of the innovation.

Key Technical Innovations

According to rule-makers that competitors will have increased agency to determine tactics regarding energy deployment, harvesting, and conservation.

The 2026 rules introduce a series of modes that will be shown on broadcast screens to improve the audience's understanding of the race battle.

• Passing Mode: This takes over from the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy deployable when a driver is close behind the car ahead to assist with an overtaking maneuver.
• Boost Mode: This is a on-demand energy deployment from the hybrid system that can be used in attack or defence. It provides the pilot peak output at the activation of a control.

Both of these strategic tools will have to be managed carefully, as the available electrical charge is restricted.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the car's wings change configuration – spreading on the long straight sections for minimal air resistance and top speed, and angling down in the bends for peak grip.
• Battery Recharge: Drivers can replenish their battery with regenerative braking, or during coasting at the conclusion of a straight or in corners where only reduced throttle is applied.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The next-generation machines will be more compact and lighter than this year, with a wheelbase cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight lowered by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is projected to decrease by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although constructors will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Drag has been slashed by 40%. The cars will employ moveable wing elements – front and rear wings will move on the straights to cut resistance and boost top speed and click back into place for peak handling.

Wheels will retain the current rim size, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and three centimetres on the rear.

Power Unit Revolution

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

The hybrid system is made less complex through the deletion of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the intricate and expensive component that generated electricity from the turbo.

Every car on the grid will be mandated to operate on fully sustainable fuel, created from organic sources or synthetic production methods.