Open cockpits have been an essential part of grand
prix racing for decades. That's beginning to change, as Formula One
considers options for better protecting its drivers.
This concept was rendered by German designer Andries
van Overbeeke based on input from one Anthony Hamilton – a name which racing
fans may recognize as belonging to the father of three-time world champion
Lewis Hamilton.
Anthony served as his son's manager at the start of
his career until the two parted their professional ways about seven years ago,
after Lewis won his first world title with McLaren.
While the “halo” design that's currently the
frontrunner and the alternative “aeroscreen” were both designed specifically for
F1, this proposal forms part of a different plan. It envisions a separate
racing series based around this fresh design. It features even fatter tires
than the rubber instituted for the 2017 FIA Formula One World Championship, a
lower drag coefficient with less downforce, and a V8 engine with a hybrid
electric assist channeled through all four wheels to give it all-wheel
traction.
It's a sleek design and though it may
never turn a wheel in anger, the idea of a completely closed cockpit might be
worth at least considering.
