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F1 has unveiled the new language that will be used to describe the intricate details of its new 2026 regulations.

The championship is embarking on what is potentially the biggest technical shift in its illustrious history next season, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the compulsory introduction of eco-friendly fuels.

The new power units, which keep the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a substantially higher energy storage, requiring major innovations in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

Over a race distance, drivers will strategically manage ERS energy – potentially on qualifying laps – to achieve the optimal result.

Broad surveys were conducted with a mix of viewers, including new, casual and core fans, to determine which terms would aid comprehension of the main elements of the upcoming rules.

The key objective was to present a range of advanced technical aspects of the competition as easy to grasp as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, initial designations for certain devices – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the active aerodynamics – have been abandoned in favour of straightforward terms that clearly indicate the actual function of the system.

What's the New Technology?

According to rule-makers that drivers will have greater control to make decisions regarding power usage, regeneration, and saving energy.

The upcoming changes mandate a range of settings that will be clearly indicated on broadcast screens to improve the viewers' comprehension of the strategic duel.

• Attack Mode: This supersedes the present overtaking aid. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy accessible when a car is close behind the car ahead to assist with an pass.
• Power Mode: This is a manual power boost from the ERS that can be deployed for overtaking or defending. It grants the pilot full engine and battery energy at the activation of a control.

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

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the car's wings adjust their angles – opening on the long straight sections for reduced drag and increased velocity, and angling down in the bends for peak grip.
• Recharge: The system can replenish their battery with regenerative braking, or during throttle lift at the conclusion of a straight or in certain corners where only limited engine output is required.

Car Design Evolution

The vehicles for the new era will be smaller and lighter than this year, with a car length cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight reduced by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately a significant margin, although constructors will inevitably claw this back as they develop their cars.

Air resistance has been reduced by 40%. The cars will feature moveable wing elements – both wings will adjust on the straight sections to reduce drag and increase straightline speed and click back into place for maximum cornering performance.

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

2026 Engine Regulations

The revised hybrid units will have an approximate 50-50 split in power produced by the petrol engine and the electrical system, a rise from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The energy recovery system is made less complex through the removal of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the intricate and expensive device that recovered energy from the turbo.

Cars will be obliged to compete on 100% sustainable fuel, manufactured from biomass or synthetic industrial processes.