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

The world of Formula 1 has introduced the official language that will be used to describe the intricate details of its new 2026 regulations.

The racing series is embarking on what is potentially the biggest technical shift in its competitive history starting in 2026, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the required adoption of 100% sustainable fuels.

The new power units, which maintain the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a greatly enhanced battery power, requiring major innovations in the vehicles' aerodynamic design.

Over a race distance, competitors will tactically deploy battery power – sometimes even flying laps – to achieve the peak result.

Broad surveys were conducted with a wide range of fans, including dedicated enthusiasts and casual observers, to understand which terms would aid comprehension of the key features of the new regulations.

The stated goal was to render a series of complex technical aspects of the sport as straightforward as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, initial designations for certain devices – such as "alphabetical mode names" for the moveable wings – have been abandoned in preference for straightforward terms that clearly indicate the primary purpose of the system.

Exploring the New Tech

Regulators explain that competitors will have increased agency to determine tactics regarding power usage, regeneration, and efficiency.

The new regulations introduce a set of functions that will be visually displayed on TV overlays to enhance the viewers' comprehension of the strategic duel.

• Passing Mode: This replaces the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a surge of additional ERS power available when a car is within one second the vehicle in front to facilitate an overtaking maneuver.
• Boost Mode: This is a driver-operated energy deployment from the energy recovery system that can be deployed for attack or defence. It provides the driver maximum power at the click of a switch.

Both of these key functions will have to be managed carefully, as the total energy is strictly limited.

• Active Aero: Both the nose and rear wings adjust their angles – flattening on the high-speed sections for minimal air resistance and top speed, and sealing in the turns for optimal cornering performance.
• Energy Harvesting: The system can recharge the energy store with regenerative braking, or during partial power application at the straight's end or in sections where only reduced throttle is applied.

What's Changing on the Cars?

The next-generation machines will be more compact and lighter compared to the 2025 spec, with a wheelbase shortened by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width narrowed by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight reduced by 30kg.

Total aerodynamic grip is anticipated to be reduced by approximately a significant margin, although teams will inevitably claw this back as they refine their designs.

Air resistance has been cut by 40%. The vehicles will employ adjustable aero systems – front and rear wings will open on the straight sections to improve speed and boost top speed and click back into place for maximum cornering performance.

Wheels will keep 18-inch wheel rims, but the tyres themselves will be reduced in width, by a quarter-centimetre on the front and 30mm at the rear.

2026 Engine Regulations

The 2026 engines will have an roughly half-and-half distribution in energy output by the petrol engine and the ERS, a rise from about 20% electrical under present rules.

The energy recovery system is simplified through the deletion of the MGU-H, the complicated and costly unit that harvested power from the turbo.

All vehicles will be obliged to compete on 100% sustainable fuel, produced using organic sources or synthetic production methods.