Williams focus on 2018 car will be gradual - Lowe

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Williams tech boss Paddy Lowe says that the Grove-based outfit's focus on its 2018 design will reflect a gradual process.

Slowly but surely, F1 teams are beginning to shift resources to next season's cars, but Lowe insists the amount of focus depends on each specific case, with no "black and white" decision initiating the change.

Depending on the amount of elements which may find their way into a future design, the procedure is more or less a progressive one, according to Lowe.

"There's never a black and white answer to that. It's always a bit of a merge really," explained Lowe.

"You gradually put more and more focus onto the following year and it really depends on the projects.

"Some projects, they carry over whether specifically or in terms of knowledge so you keep going with those because they're going to work for you in the following year.

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"Other things that are, would only really help you in that used car, you may reach a point where you say you're not going to invest the effort in those within the current season.

"Often these decisions are decided on a case by case basis rather than having some sort of overall black and white decision."

While F1 design often follows prevailing trends, Lowe does not believe Williams will change its overall design philosophy, despite also this season's inconsistent performance.

"There's no fixed philosophy either way. We're not certainly never happy with status quo if we can see a better way of doing things so everything's up for grabs basically," Lowe added.

"But at the same time you don't tear things up if they don't need to be. We will take all our opportunities in terms of fundamental and detailed designs next year."

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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.