Honda takes to the skies!

As it struggles endlessly to lift its performance above the ground in Formula 1, Honda, whose field of expertise now extends to the aviation industry, is taking to the skies.

Its revolutionary and strikingly beautiful HondaJet made its first official appearance recently at the Taipei airshow in China, and was just nominated for best private jet design at the International Yacht and Aviation awards.

McLaren-Honda's Fernando Alonso apparently expressed interest in the light jet, but won't commit until the aircraft demonstrates its total reliability. We understand where he's coming from...

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.