Formula 1’s 2026 season introduces major regulation changes that have brought a whole new set of technical terms for cars, engines and race strategy.
The 2026 rules overhaul covers both chassis and power unit changes, making cars lighter with much less downforce and a near‑equal split of electric and internal combustion power.
Because of these big technical updates, F1 and the FIA have introduced new terminology to describe key features and systems teams and fans will hear throughout the season.
Some of the new language relates to aerodynamic and power modes that replace older concepts — for example, DRS has given way to terms like “straight mode” and “corner mode,” while power deployment systems are described with names like “overtake mode” and “boost mode.”
This updated terminology is meant to make the new technical systems easier for viewers, engineers and broadcasters to understand and talk about as teams compete under the latest regulations.