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F1 has unveiled the official language that will be used to explain the advanced features of its upcoming 2026 regulations.

The sport is embarking on what is arguably the largest regulation change in its competitive history starting in 2026, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the compulsory introduction of fully sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which keep the hybrid V6 layout, boast a substantially higher electrical capacity, requiring key advancements in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

Throughout races, drivers will carefully oversee electrical energy – including during hot laps – to secure the best performance.

Wide-ranging research were carried out with a diverse audience, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terminology would aid comprehension of the central aspects of the upcoming rules.

The key objective was to present a range of advanced new areas of the racing as straightforward as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, initial designations for specific components – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the moveable wings – have been phased out in preference for descriptive names that clearly indicate the real-world effect of the system.

Exploring the New Tech

Regulators explain that competitors will have greater control to determine tactics regarding battery management, energy recovery, and conservation.

The new regulations mandate a range of settings that will be shown on broadcast screens to enhance the audience's understanding of the strategic duel.

• Attack Mode: This replaces the current DRS. It provides a surge of additional ERS power accessible when a car is close behind the vehicle in front to execute an pass.
• Boost Mode: This is a driver-operated power boost from the energy recovery system that can be used in attack or defence. It delivers the driver maximum power at the activation of a control.

Both of these strategic tools will have to be used with calculation, as the available electrical charge is strictly limited.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the front and rear wings adjust their angles – spreading on the high-speed sections for minimal air resistance and higher speed, and closing in the bends for maximum downforce.
• Energy Harvesting: Drivers can recharge the energy store with energy harvested under braking, or during partial power application at the straight's end or in corners where only partial power is required.

Car Design Evolution

The vehicles for the new era will be smaller and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a car length reduced by 200mm to 3,400mm, width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the car weight reduced by 30kg.

Overall downforce is expected to drop by approximately fifteen to thirty percent, although constructors will undoubtedly recover some as they refine their designs.

Aerodynamic drag has been slashed by 40%. The cars will employ moveable wing elements – both wings will adjust on the straight sections to reduce drag and enhance velocity and return into place for maximum cornering performance.

Pirelli tyres will retain the current rim size, but the actual tyres will be narrower, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The 2026 engines will have an approximate 50-50 split in horsepower generated by the ICE and the battery and motor, up from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The hybrid system is streamlined through the removal of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the sophisticated and pricey component that harvested power from the exhaust turbo.

Cars will be required to run on fully sustainable fuel, produced using biomass or lab-created processes.