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F1 has revealed the simplified terminology that will be used to explain the advanced features of its new 2026 regulations.

The sport is embarking on what is considered the biggest regulation change in its long history for the 2026 campaign, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the compulsory introduction of fully sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which keep the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a greatly enhanced energy storage, requiring key advancements in the aero packages.

Throughout races, competitors will tactically deploy ERS energy – including during flying laps – to secure the peak result.

Wide-ranging research were undertaken with a mix of viewers, including new, casual and core fans, to understand which phrases would make things clearer of the main elements of the new regulations.

The stated goal was to make a set of intricate technical aspects of the racing as straightforward as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, initial designations for specific components – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the moveable wings – have been abandoned in favor of straightforward terms that clearly indicate the real-world effect of the technology.

What's the New Technology?

The FIA states that racers will have more power to make decisions regarding battery management, energy recovery, and conservation.

The upcoming changes introduce a series of modes that will be shown on television graphics to aid the audience's understanding of the strategic duel.

• Passing Mode: This takes over from the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a burst of extra electrical energy accessible when a car is close behind the car ahead to facilitate an pass.
• Boost Mode: This is a driver-operated power boost from the ERS that can be deployed for overtaking or defending. It provides the driver peak output at the push of a button.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be deployed strategically, as the overall battery capacity is strictly limited.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the car's wings change configuration – opening on the straights for minimal air resistance and top speed, and angling down in the corners for maximum downforce.
• Energy Harvesting: Cars can replenish their battery with regenerative braking, or during partial power application at the straight's end or in certain corners where only limited engine output is required.

Car Design Evolution

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

Total aerodynamic grip is expected to drop by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although teams will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Aerodynamic drag has been reduced by 40%. The cars will feature active aerodynamics – both wings will open on the straights to reduce drag and increase straightline speed and click back into place for optimal grip in corners.

Wheels will retain the current rim size, but the tyres themselves will be reduced in width, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The revised hybrid units will have an approximate 50-50 split in energy output by the ICE and the ERS, a rise from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The hybrid system is simplified through the deletion of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the intricate and expensive component that generated electricity from the exhaust turbo.

Cars will be required to run on 100% sustainable fuel, produced using organic sources or lab-created processes.