F1's 2026 Overtake Mode: ERS‑K Power Boost Replacing DRS
From 2026, F1 will drop DRS in favor of an 'overtake mode' that uses ERS‑K energy to boost the attacker’s power and help pass the car ahead. The mode shuffles power via a speed‑dependent formula (peaking around a few hundred kilowatts at race speeds) with a per‑lap energy cap of 8.5 MJ (increased by 0.5 MJ on overtaking laps). The FIA can adjust the maximum ERS‑K output to keep speeds safe. Activation and detection lines, like DRS, will be announced four weeks before each weekend; the system isn’t usable on the first lap and can be disabled by the Race Director for safety. It will be available in practice and qualifying, and if a system failure prevents notification, teams must obtain permission to operate manually.
