X-Mode, Z-Mode and Override: how F1 2026 active aerodynamics system works. The three main terms emerging from the new regulations are X-Mode, Z-Mode, and Manual Override Mode..

New Terms to Learn
Since 2011, Formula 1 fans have become familiar with the DRS, the Drag Reduction System introduced to make overtaking easier and which over the years has become an essential reference point for drivers and teams. However, this will soon be a thing of the past, as evidenced by a humorous nostalgic tweet from Oscar Piastri.

Now that the FIA has presented the new rules for the 2026 Formula 1 season, it’s time to get acquainted with some new terms that may seem strange at the moment but will soon become common for those following the series. The three main terms emerging from the new regulations are X-Mode, Z-Mode, and Manual Override Mode.

Z-Mode and X-Mode
Starting with Z-Mode and X-Mode, these terms pertain to the aerodynamics of the new Formula 1 cars. The cars on the track in 2026 will benefit from new active aerodynamics systems. This mechanism, involving mobile front and rear wings, will allow greater speed in corners using ‘Z-Mode,’ the standard version. On straights, drivers chasing another car can switch to ‘X-Mode,’ a low-drag configuration designed to maximize straight-line speed and facilitate overtaking.

Manual Override Mode
Formula 1 epitomizes technological evolution and progress in motorsport. After introducing hybrid turbo power units in 2014, the FIA has further changed the specifications of the new Power Unit. Among the many modifications for 2026 is the new Override function.

The technical regulations for the new Formula 1 are not yet fully defined, but we can understand the main novelties that will be onboard the 2026 F1 cars. The first draft of the PU regulations was published in August 2026 with Audi’s presentation as a new manufacturer. It is known that the power distribution between the internal combustion engine and electric motor will be significantly different.

With a substantial increase in electric power, the FIA has worked extensively on engine modes and power delivery. These changes follow the abolition of the MGU-H in favor of simplifying the new power units. This will be paired with a new series of 100% sustainable fuels, providing a broader platform for both competitive and road development.

With the Federation focusing on bringing back the spectacle on the track, key decisions have been made to achieve this goal. Among these is the new Override function, which will allow drivers to make extreme overtakes or defenses. This new engine mode will be manually activated by the driver. While the FIA has not detailed the specific functioning of the Override, it has explained how it will affect track action. The FIA’s example describes two cars in pursuit.

The leading car will have more drag and decreasing combined power. The power will drop from 100% at 290 km/h to 0% at 355 km/h with a constant decrease. Meanwhile, the chasing car will benefit from a power surplus (Override MGUK), providing 350 kW (about 475 HP) up to a top speed of 337 km/h, aided by an extra 0.5 MJ of energy.