Reigning champions
Mercedes have proposed a new solution to the ever-present problem of cockpit safety in formula one. Canopies and roll-cages have been discussed at length behind closed doors since the fatal accident of F2 racer Henry Surtees, and the serious injuries sustained by
Felipe Massa when he was a
Ferrari driver in 2009.
The issue then returned to the top of the agenda late last year, when the now stricken
Jules Bianchi's helmeted head hit the underside of a trackside vehicle during the Japanese grand prix. According to Germany's Auto Motor und Sport, Mercedes presented a proposed solution to the problem of F1's open cockpits to the latest meeting of the Technical Working Group.
It is a sort of oval-shaped 'halo', encircling the driver's head and attached to the front of the monocoque just ahead of the steering wheel and dash. "Less respectful voices are calling it a toilet seat," said correspondent Michael Schmidt.
Auto Motor und Sport's estimation of what the safety 'halo' might look like can be seen at: http://img3.auto-motor-und-sport.de/Mercedes-Cockpitschutz-fotoshowImage-b5b58990-845808.jpg (GMM)
Replies (1)
Login to replykhasmir
Posts: 893
Really!? I mean, come on, they are kidding right?