Formula 2 unveils 2018 car at Monza

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As scheduled, the FIA Formula 2 series pulled the covers off its halo-equipped 2018 car at Monza today.

The new car, which complies with the latest F1 safety standards, features architecture typical of a modern F1 car and a 3.4 litre turbo-charged Mecachrome engine, which delivers 620 HP at 8,750 rpm.

The design philosophy was to refresh the car to mirror the latest updates in F1 design, and to maintain a long tradition of wheel to wheel racing.

The new machine is also the first new car to be revealed featuring the Halo system, which was incorporated at the final stage of the design process.

FIA set to impose 'Halo' in Formula 2 in 2018

"The unveiling of the 2018 FIA Formula 2 car is an important moment for the FIA as we complete the single-seater pyramid from Karting right through to the pinnacle of motor sport in the FIA Formula One World Championship," said the FIA's Charlie Whiting.

"The plan for a more structured junior formula ladder is designed to feature cars that better prepare drivers for the next step.

"For Formula 2, that means we needed a car that will not only educate, but will also allow the drivers that are most ready for Formula One to shine brightest.

"The car has been developed to include improved aesthetics, as well as bringing the safety level up to the highest standards for single-seater cars – and to ultimately bring it closer to a modern Formula One car on both of these points."

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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.