Active aerodynamics (X-Mode and Z-Mode): The traditional DRS has been replaced by active front and rear wings that shift between two distinct configurations. Drivers use Z-Mode for maximum downforce in corners, but can switch to the low-drag X-Mode on every designated straight, regardless of whether they are near another car.

Manual override/overtake mode: Since "Straight Mode" is available to everyone, a new tactical tool called Overtake Mode is used to help with passing. When a driver is within one second of the car ahead, they receive an extra surge of electrical energy that allows them to maintain high speeds longer than the lead car.

The 50/50 power split: The power units have been redesigned to provide a nearly equal balance between the internal combustion engine and electrical power. This removes the complex MGU-H (heat recovery) and triples the MGU-K's output, making energy management and harvesting much more critical during the race.

New qualifying elimination format: With the arrival of Cadillac, there are now 22 cars on the grid, forcing a change to the knockout segments. Six drivers are now eliminated at the end of both Q1 and Q2, rather than the previous five, to ensure only 10 cars reach the final session.

Extended Q3 duration: To accommodate the new energy deployment strategies and ensure a thrilling finish, the final qualifying session (Q3) has been extended to 13 minutes. This gives teams more time to charge their batteries for multiple "hot laps" without the sessions feeling rushed.

Revised race start procedure: Because the new engines lack an MGU-H to keep the turbo spinning, there is a risk of significant "turbo lag" off the line. To combat this, the FIA has optimised the start sequence to allow drivers a specific window to build engine revs before the lights go out.

100% sustainable "drop-in" fuels: For the first time, every car runs on fully sustainable fuels derived from non-food sources or from atmospheric carbon capture. This is a "drop-in" fuel, meaning it is designed to power the high-performance V6 engines without requiring a complete redesign of the combustion chamber.