Active Aero & Overtake Mode - Explaining F1's Updated Technical Jargon

The world of Formula 1 has introduced the new language that will be used to explain the intricate details of its new 2026 technical rules.

The racing series is embarking on what is potentially the largest technical shift in its long history starting in 2026, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the mandatory use of 100% sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a significantly increased energy storage, requiring major innovations in the aero packages.

Throughout races, drivers will tactically deploy battery power – including during qualifying laps – to secure the optimal performance.

Wide-ranging research were carried out with a wide range of fans, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which phrases would make things clearer of the key features of the 2026 changes.

The primary aim was to make a set of intricate features of the racing as easy to grasp as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, previous placeholder terms for some systems – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the moveable wings – have been discarded in favour of straightforward terms that succinctly convey the real-world effect of the system.

Key Technical Innovations

Regulators explain that drivers will have increased agency to choose strategies regarding battery management, regeneration, and conservation.

The new regulations mandate a range of settings that will be visually displayed on broadcast screens to aid the viewers' comprehension of the race battle.

• Passing Mode: This replaces the current DRS. It provides a surge of additional ERS power accessible when a driver is less than a second the vehicle in front to execute an overtake.
• Boost Mode: This is a manual battery discharge from the energy recovery system that can be used in attack or defence. It provides the driver peak output at the click of a switch.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be used with calculation, as the total energy is strictly limited.

• Active Aero: Both the nose and rear wings change configuration – opening on the high-speed sections for minimal air resistance and top speed, and sealing in the corners for peak grip.
• Battery Recharge: Cars can replenish their battery with regenerative braking, or during coasting at the straight's end or in certain corners where only reduced throttle is used.

Car Design Evolution

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

Overall downforce is expected to drop by approximately a significant margin, although teams will undoubtedly recover some as they develop their cars.

Drag has been reduced by 40%. The cars will feature adjustable aero systems – both wings will open on the straight sections to reduce drag and increase straightline speed and click back into place for maximum cornering performance.

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

2026 Engine Regulations

The 2026 engines will have an near-equal balance in horsepower generated by the ICE and the electrical system, increasing from about 20% battery contribution this year.

The ERS setup is streamlined through the deletion of the MGU-H, the sophisticated and pricey device that harvested power from the exhaust turbo.

All vehicles will be required to run on carbon-neutral fuel, produced using biomass or synthetic production methods.