Formula 1 to Introduce Safer Partially Closed Cockpit in 2017
Formula 1 race cars will be much safer and look quite different starting in 2017.
The F1 Commission has confirmed its intention to introduce some form of cockpit protection starting in the 2017 season. The FIA said in a statement that all stakeholders are working together to make closed cockpits a reality and currently the “Halo” concept (seen above) is the preferred option. The decision isn’t final, however, as other options including transparent cockpit protection is still under consideration and being evaluated.
SEE ALSO: FIA Testing Safer Closed Cockpit Designs Next Month
The announcement comes as the F1 Commision also confirms new bodywork regulations in hopes of creating more dynamic Formula 1 cars starting in 2017. The new regulations will also deliver additional downforce to increase speeds and lower lap times. The FIA, teams and official tire suppliers are also discussing the best solution for testing of the new tires as part of the regulations.
Rumors of a partially closed cockpit design being used in Formula 1 cars surfaced late last year, following the death of Justin Wilson. The favored Halo concept was originally designed by Mercedes-Benz Motorsports with FIA taking over the development process and conducted a round of testing last fall.
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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There is no partial obstruction of driver visibility going on. It's just your lying eyes again :-p