P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Formula 1’s new straight mode will be used in five parts of the track at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix
Formula 1’s new straight mode will be implemented in five sections of the track during the Australian Grand Prix season opener. The 2026 cars feature enhanced active aerodynamics, utilizing both front and rear wings to reduce drag on straightaways. This system is not meant to aid overtaking but rather enhance car efficiency on straights, lessening the demands on the engine. There have been discussions on setting the zones for the active aero and minimizing drag, with more ‘SM’ zones expected compared to previous DRS systems. In Melbourne, four old DRS zones will transition to SM zones, with a detection point for the new overtake engine mode set near the penultimate corner. The FIA has confirmed activation just before the final corner, allowing drivers to utilize extra energy for increased performance.
