The core function of the overtake button is to make passing maneuvers easier. The increased power can be achieved through adjustments to engine modes or by utilizing energy stored in an additional battery. Currently, all racing associations except drag racing prohibit the use of nitrous oxide as a means of boosting internal combustion engines.
Several racing series have adopted push-to-pass systems, including Champ Car, A1GP (referred to as PowerBoost), Audi Sport TT Cup (since 2015), DTM (since 2019), Indy Lights (since 2015), IndyCar Series, Super Formula (since 2021), and Formula Regional EU (since 2022).
In IndyCar Series races on non-oval circuits, drivers are allocated between 150 and 200 seconds of extra power per race, which they can deploy at their discretion. This power can be activated for up to 20 seconds at a time, allowing for a minimum of 10 power deliveries during a single race. Drivers may use the system to attempt an overtake, defend their position, or even improve lap times.
Super Formula implemented a push-to-pass system, known as the Overtake System (OTS), beginning with the 2021 season. Drivers are provided with up to 200 seconds of OTS usage (20 seconds per activation), followed by a cooldown period of at least 100 seconds, dependent on the race length.
The Formula Regional European Championship adopted the push-to-pass system starting in the 2022 season. Each driver receives five activations of the button per race, with each activation providing up to 15 seconds of additional engine performance. This allowance can be reset if a race is red-flagged and restarted.
Formula E initially featured Fanboost, allowing fans to vote for their favorite driver via social media to grant them a temporary power boost during a race. In the 2018–19 season, Attack Mode was introduced, enabling drivers to activate a boost by driving through a designated off-racing-line area of the circuit. Fanboost was removed from Formula E prior to the 2022–23 season.
While not a direct equivalent, Formula One utilizes the kinetic energy recovery system (KERS), which recovers energy from braking for later use. The drag reduction system (DRS) also increases speed by reducing aerodynamic drag, though its use is more restricted than push-to-pass systems.
The use of the overtake button is not limited to overtaking maneuvers. Drivers may choose to activate the system to defend a position or to improve lap times during qualifying or while attempting an undercut or overcut strategy during a race. The amount of extra power, boost time, and number of activations available varies between racing series.