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F1 has introduced the new vocabulary that will be used to reference the technical complexities of its new 2026 regulations.

The racing series is embarking on what is potentially the biggest technical shift in its long history next season, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the mandatory use of eco-friendly fuels.

The revised engines, which keep the hybrid V6 layout, boast a substantially higher battery power, requiring major innovations in the aero packages.

Throughout races, drivers will tactically deploy electrical energy – potentially on flying laps – to secure the peak result.

Extensive fan consultation were undertaken with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terms would aid comprehension of the key features of the new regulations.

The primary aim was to present a set of intricate technical aspects of the sport as accessible as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, initial designations for certain devices – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the moveable wings – have been abandoned in preference for straightforward terms that directly explain the primary purpose of the technology.

What's the New Technology?

According to rule-makers that competitors will have more power to determine tactics regarding energy deployment, energy recovery, and saving energy.

The new regulations introduce a range of settings that will be clearly indicated on TV overlays to aid the fans' insight of the race battle.

• Attack Mode: This supersedes the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy available when a driver is within one second the vehicle in front to facilitate an pass.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a on-demand power boost from the hybrid system that can be utilized during offensive or defensive moves. It delivers the driver full engine and battery energy at the click of a switch.

Both of these strategic tools will have to be managed carefully, as the total energy is restricted.

• Active Aero: Both the nose and rear wings change configuration – opening on the high-speed sections for low aerodynamic resistance and increased velocity, and sealing in the bends for peak grip.
• Battery Recharge: The system can recharge the energy store with regenerative braking, or during throttle lift at the end of straights or in corners where only reduced throttle is required.

2026 Car Specifications

The vehicles for the new era will be more compact and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a distance between axles reduced by 200mm to 3,400mm, width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight reduced by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately a significant margin, although squads will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Aerodynamic drag has been slashed by 40%. The cars will feature adjustable aero systems – front and rear wings will open on the straights to cut resistance and increase straightline speed and click back into place for optimal grip in corners.

Wheels will retain 18-inch rims, but the tyres themselves will be reduced in width, by 25mm at the front and 30mm at the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The new power units will have an approximate 50-50 split in horsepower generated by the petrol engine and the ERS, increasing from about one-fifth electric power this year.

The hybrid system is made less complex through the removal of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the complicated and costly component that recovered energy from the turbocharger.

Every car on the grid will be obliged to compete on fully sustainable fuel, produced using plant-based materials or lab-created processes.