Forget The 'Manual Override Mode': F1 Renames Its New 2026 Technologies

Formula 1 has simplified the terms it will use to refer to new technologies which will appear on cars in 2026.

The series said in a statement it wants to “avoid gimmicks and jargon” when it introduces new regulations for the 2026 season.

The FIA originally announced the new regulations last year. They will allow teams to use active aerodynamics to reduce drag on the straights and increase downforce in the corners.

These two states were originally referred to as ‘Z-mode’ for maximum downforce when the front and rear wings are raised and ‘Y-mode’ for minimum drag when the wings are lowered. They will now be referred to as ‘Corner’ and ‘Straight’ mode respectively.

F1 has also announced a new name for the ‘Manual Override Mode’ which will allow drivers to use extra power from their engines when they are within one second of another car. This will now be referred to as ‘Overtake Mode’.

F1 says this mode is: “for drivers within one second of a car in front to deploy extra power to instigate an overtake. It replaces DRS and aids on-track passing, being a strategic tool to be used all in one go or spread over a lap.”

Drivers also have the ability to use ‘Boost Mode’, which is available irrespective of whether they are close to another car.

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F1 will refer to any opportunity for a driver to recharge their battery, either in a braking zone or through a corner when they are using partial throttle, as ‘Recharge’.

F1 said it decided on the new terms after consulting the FIA, teams and engineers, and surveying fans for their views.

In addition to the new energy modes, the 2026 cars will also be narrower and have smaller wheels and tyres. The minimum weight limit has also been reduced.