MERCEDES’ HALO
Currently under scrutiny are two new solutions: one comes from Mercedes, while the other is even more original.
“[The first solution] doesn't cover the driver,” said Whiting. “You can still take the driver out, which is one of the most important things, and it's a hoop above the drivers head and forward of it, but with one central stay.”
While striking to look at, the 'halo' system has a lesser effect on visibility than a roll-hoop and its hinged locking mechanism means it can quickly be removed.
PROTECTION ‘BLADES’
The second potential design also explores the addition of forward protection, albeit in a different shape.
“We are also looking at another device which is blades of varying heights which will be set on top of the chassis and in front of the driver at angles which will render them nearly invisible to him."
It remains hard to envision how the system would look and not obstruct vision - the diagram that follows is more of a suggestion than a faithful illustration.
