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F1 has revealed the simplified language that will be used to explain the intricate details of its revolutionary 2026 technical rules.

The racing series is introducing what is arguably the most significant regulation change in its competitive history starting in 2026, featuring new chassis and engine rules and the required adoption of fully sustainable fuels.

The revised engines, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a substantially higher battery power, driving major innovations in the aero packages.

Throughout races, competitors will strategically manage battery power – including during hot laps – to achieve the optimal result.

Broad surveys were undertaken with a wide range of fans, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to understand which phrases would improve understanding of the central aspects of the upcoming rules.

The stated goal was to render a series of complex features of the competition as straightforward as possible for the global fanbase.

Consequently, initial designations for certain devices – such as "modes labelled X and Z" for the active aerodynamics – have been discarded in favor of descriptive names that clearly indicate the primary purpose of the innovation.

Key Technical Innovations

Regulators explain that competitors will have greater control to choose strategies regarding power usage, harvesting, and conservation.

The new regulations introduce a series of modes that will be shown on broadcast screens to enhance the viewers' comprehension of the race battle.

• Attack Mode: This supersedes the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a short boost of battery power available when a driver is close behind the vehicle in front to facilitate an pass.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated energy deployment from the hybrid system that can be used in offensive or defensive moves. It delivers the driver peak output at the push of a button.

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

• Active Aero: Both the front and rear wings move automatically – opening on the high-speed sections for low aerodynamic resistance and higher speed, and sealing in the bends for maximum downforce.
• Battery Recharge: The system can replenish their battery with regenerative braking, or during coasting at the conclusion of a straight or in certain corners where only limited engine output is applied.

Car Design Evolution

The 2026 cars will be more compact and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a wheelbase cut by 200mm to 3,400mm, overall width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight lowered by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is expected to drop by approximately 15-30%, although squads will naturally regain performance as they develop their cars.

Aerodynamic drag has been reduced by 40%. The vehicles will employ active aerodynamics – front and rear wings will adjust on the straights to cut resistance and increase straightline speed and return into place for maximum cornering performance.

Pirelli tyres will retain the current rim size, but the rubber compounds will be reduced in width, by 25mm at the front and 30 millimetres on the rear axle.

2026 Engine Regulations

The revised hybrid units will have an approximate 50-50 split in power produced by the ICE and the electrical system, up from about 20% electrical in the current formula.

The hybrid system is made less complex through the elimination of the Motor Generator Unit – Heat, the complicated and costly device that harvested power from the turbocharger.

Cars will be mandated to operate on carbon-neutral fuel, manufactured from plant-based materials or lab-created processes.