Aero, power units, rules
Formula 1 technical coverage: car upgrades, aerodynamics, power units and the technical regulations that shape the grid, broken down without the jargon.
The 2026 Formula 1 regulations introduce a dual-mode aerodynamic system requiring wing transitions within 400ms. This shift to X-mode and Z-mode aims to reduce drag by 55% while managing complex stability challenges during high-speed transitions.
McLaren faces significant rear tyre degradation issues with the MCL40, where Max Verstappen maintains a superior advantage in tyre management. The 2026 tyre hierarchy shows a narrow degradation spread of just 0.008 seconds per lap between compounds.
Ferrari faces significant challenges balancing cooling requirements with aerodynamic stability for the 2026 regulations. The team must resolve turbo overheating and MGU-K energy harvesting deficits to close a 4% performance gap to Red Bull.
Aston Martin faces technical hurdles with the RA626H power unit, leaving the team with only three points after fourteen rounds. To address performance gaps, the FIA has allowed Honda to exceed the cost cap by an extra £14 million.
James Vowles faces technical challenges integrating the Mercedes gearbox into the Williams FW48 chassis. This shift from in-house manufacturing creates a dependency on Mercedes development cycles and complicates packaging for the new 2026 regulations.
Explore how McLaren manages dirty air and tyre temperatures through advanced MCL40 design. Learn about the 2026 F1 technical regulations, including the 768kg minimum weight limit and the FIA's investigation into wheel-fairing spray.
Ferrari is transitioning from a pull-rod to a push-rod front suspension for the SF-26 to better suit Lewis Hamilton's driving style. This technical shift aims to improve aerodynamic efficiency and weight distribution under the new 2026 Formula 1 regulations.
Explore the technical shift in the Red Bull RB22 as it moves to a double-pushrod suspension layout. This guide covers the 2026 regulations, active aerodynamics, and the history of the FIA ban on active suspension technology.
The floor is the most powerful aerodynamic device on the car. Here is how venturi tunnels work.
An F1 power unit is a hybrid system of six elements. We explain each part and how they work together.
DRS flattens the rear wing to cut drag. Here is the activation rule and why its effect varies.
F1 brakes run at extreme temperatures. We look at carbon materials and the rear brake-by-wire system.