F1 2026 terminology: Overtake mode, boost mode, active aero, recharge

Formula 1 has revealed the terminology the sport will use to refer to the technical complexities of the new 2026 rules.

F1 is introducing arguably the biggest regulation change in its history next season, with new chassis and engine rules, and the mandating of sustainable fuels.

The new engines, which remain 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, have significantly increased electrical capacity, which has required innovations in the cars’ aerodynamics.

Drivers will manage electrical energy throughout races – sometimes even on qualifying laps – to secure the best performance.

F1 and governing body the FIA have consulted with what is described as a “wide range of new, casual and core fans to understand what kind of terminology would help them better understand the key features of the new regulations”.

A statement said this involved “using third-party polling data and our 50,000 strong community ‘Fan Voice’, as well as consultation with the FIA, F1 teams and other technical experts to finalise and agree on the terms”.

The aim was to make a series of complex new areas of the sport as easy to understand as possible to the widest audience.

So previous terms for some of the devices – such as “x-mode and “z-mode” for the active aeroydnamics – have been dropped in favour of descriptions that give a more direct and straightforward indication of what the technology actually does.