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

The world of Formula 1 has introduced the simplified terminology that will be used to describe the intricate details of its upcoming 2026 technical rules.

The championship is implementing what is potentially the largest regulation change in its illustrious history starting in 2026, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the mandatory use of eco-friendly fuels.

The new power units, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a significantly increased energy storage, necessitating significant developments in the aero packages.

During grand prix events, drivers will strategically manage battery power – sometimes even hot laps – to achieve the optimal lap time.

Wide-ranging research were undertaken with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to understand which terms would improve understanding of the key features of the upcoming rules.

The primary aim was to present a set of intricate features of the racing as accessible as possible for the broadest viewership.

Consequently, older technical labels for specific components – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the moveable wings – have been discarded in favour of descriptive names that directly explain the primary purpose of the technology.

What's the New Technology?

The FIA states that racers will have increased agency to determine tactics regarding battery management, energy recovery, and conservation.

The new regulations mandate a set of functions that will be shown on TV overlays to improve the fans' insight of the on-track action.

• Overtake Mode: This replaces the present overtaking aid. It provides a short boost of battery power available when a competitor is less than a second the vehicle in front to execute an pass.
• Boost Mode: This is a on-demand battery discharge from the ERS that can be deployed for attack or defence. It grants the driver peak output at the click of a switch.

Both of these key functions will have to be managed carefully, as the available electrical charge is capped.

• Adjustable Aero: Both the front and rear wings change configuration – flattening on the straights for minimal air resistance and higher speed, and angling down in the corners for maximum downforce.
• Battery Recharge: Drivers can recharge the energy store with power recovered from braking, or during partial power application at the straight's end or in sections where only limited engine output is applied.

Car Design Evolution

The vehicles for the new era will be more compact and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a car length shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width cut by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight lowered by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is anticipated to be reduced by approximately a significant margin, although teams will naturally regain performance as they refine their designs.

Air resistance has been cut by 40%. The vehicles will utilize adjustable aero systems – both wings will adjust on the straights to cut resistance and enhance velocity and return into place for peak handling.

Wheels will retain 18-inch rims, but the actual tyres will be slimmer, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30mm at the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The revised hybrid units will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in energy output by the ICE and the battery and motor, a rise from about 20% battery contribution under present rules.

The ERS setup is made less complex through the removal of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the sophisticated and pricey unit that harvested power from the turbo.

All vehicles will be obliged to compete on carbon-neutral fuel, produced using organic sources or synthetic production methods.