P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Formula 1 is facing its biggest technological revolution in years. Here are the key terms you need to know for the new season.
With the start of the 2026 season, Formula 1 will introduce a new vocabulary of buttons, systems, and regulations, bringing about significant changes for drivers, teams, and fans. The transition includes the replacement of the DRS system with the new Overtake Mode, which provides additional electrical power for overtaking maneuvers, unlike the previous aerodynamic advantage of the rear wing. Alongside Overtake Mode, drivers will have access to a standalone Boost Mode on their steering wheel, offering maximum power from both the combustion engine and battery, independently of proximity to rivals. Recharge Mode will enable drivers to replenish the battery by capturing energy released during braking, requiring constant adjustments and communication between driver and team. The introduction of Straight and Corner Modes, with adjustable wings for differing downforce levels on straights and corners, represents a new era in active aerodynamics, enhancing the tactical options available to drivers on the track. These innovations promise to reshape the competitive landscape of Formula 1 and elevate the excitement of the sport in the coming years.