F1
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What are the yellow lights on F1 2026 cars' mirrors?
F1
As 2026 F1 testing began in Barcelona, a new set of flashing yellow mirror lights sparked intrigue
The new rear mirror lights are a safety feature
FIA
As the 2026 Formula 1 cars took to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for their first collective test on Monday, eagle-eyed fans quickly spotted something unusual: flashing yellow lights integrated into the rear-view mirrors.
Images and footage from the closed-door test session have set social media alight with speculation about this distinctive new feature adorning every car on the grid.
So what are these mysterious yellow lights, and why have they got F1 fans so intrigued?
Hazard warning system
The yellow lights function as hazard warning indicators, similar to those found on road cars.
This is the first time Formula 1 has adopted such a system, bringing a familiar road safety feature to the highest level of motor sport.
The video below shows the light in action as the Cadillac car leaves the garage in Barcelona.
The journey begins for @Cadillac_F1 🌟#F1 pic.twitter.com/95ovhgfQVy
— Formula 1 (@F1) January 26, 2026
The mirror-mounted hazard lights will complement the rear wing endplate lights for additional visibility and lateral safety lights that indicate a car’s ERS (Energy Recovery System) status.
The ERS safety challenge
The introduction of ERS status lights addresses a critical safety concern that has grown with hybrid technology.
Modern F1 power units store and deploy significant electrical energy – up to 350kW in the 2026 regulations – creating potential hazards when cars are stationary or damaged.
When an F1 car stops on track, there’s an immediate question: Is the electrical system still active?
Unlike a traditional internal combustion engine that’s clearly running or stopped, hybrid systems can be “live” with high-voltage electricity flowing through them even when stationary.
This poses serious risks to drivers attempting to exit their cars, marshals approaching to recover it, and medical personnel responding to incidents.
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In the past, drivers have been instructed to remain in their cars following accidents whilst the electrical systems are made safe, leading to tense delays.
In other instances, drivers have had to execute emergency exits from potentially live cars, uncertain whether they might receive an electric shock.
Marshals, too, have faced uncertainty when approaching stricken cars. Traditional training focused on fire risks and mechanical hazards, but hybrid technology introduced invisible electrical dangers requiring new protocols and specialised equipment.
The 2026 solution
The new lateral safety lights will clearly indicate when a car’s ERS is active, removing the guesswork. If the lights show the system is live, everyone knows to maintain a safe distance until the car is made safe.
It’s a simple visual system that addresses a complex technological challenge, prioritising the safety of everyone in the racing environment.
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