Overtake Mode & Active Aero - Explaining F1's Fresh Technical Language

The world of Formula 1 has unveiled the official terminology that will be used to explain the technical complexities of its revolutionary 2026 rulebook.

The championship is implementing what is arguably the largest regulation change in its competitive history next season, featuring fresh chassis and power unit regulations and the compulsory introduction of eco-friendly fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 configuration, boast a significantly increased battery power, necessitating significant developments in the cars' aerodynamics.

During grand prix events, drivers will strategically manage battery power – including during qualifying laps – to secure the optimal performance.

Wide-ranging research were conducted with a mix of viewers, including long-time followers and newcomers, to understand which phrases would improve understanding of the central aspects of the 2026 changes.

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

Consequently, older technical labels for some systems – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the moveable wings – have been phased out in favour of descriptive names that clearly indicate the actual function of the system.

Exploring the New Tech

According to rule-makers that racers will have increased agency to make decisions regarding battery management, regeneration, and saving energy.

The 2026 rules mandate a series of modes that will be shown on TV overlays to enhance the audience's understanding of the race battle.

• Passing Mode: This supersedes the current DRS. It provides a surge of additional ERS power deployable when a driver is close behind the vehicle in front to assist with an overtake.
• Extra Push 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 used with calculation, as the total energy is strictly limited.

• Active Aero: Both the car's wings change configuration – spreading on the high-speed sections for minimal air resistance and increased velocity, and sealing in the turns for peak grip.
• Recharge: The system can replenish their battery with regenerative braking, or during partial power application at the conclusion of a straight or in sections where only partial power is required.

Car Design Evolution

The 2026 cars will be more compact and lighter relative to current models, with a distance between axles shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the minimum weight reduced by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately 15-30%, although teams will inevitably claw this back as they develop their cars.

Air resistance has been reduced by 40%. The cars will utilize active aerodynamics – both wings will move on the straight sections to improve speed and enhance velocity and click back into place for peak handling.

Wheels will continue to use 18-inch rims, but the tyres themselves will be narrower, by 25mm at the front and 30mm at the rear.

2026 Engine Regulations

The new power units will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in horsepower generated by the petrol engine and the electrical system, increasing from about one-fifth electric power in the current formula.

The ERS setup is simplified through the deletion of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the sophisticated and pricey unit that harvested power from the exhaust turbo.

Every car on the grid will be mandated to operate on fully sustainable fuel, manufactured from biomass or synthetic production methods.