Mercedes trials new FIA rear light system

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Mercedes has integrated a new rear light assembly on its W09 following a demand by the FIA to trial the system during this week's in-season test at Barcelona.

The system features a normal main rear light but red LED strips have been added to the W09's rear wing end-plates, an assembly similar to what has been used for several years in the World Endurance Championship.

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The concept aims to improve the visibility of the lights for a driver following a car in rainy and heavy spray conditions.

The purpose of today's test was obviously to validate the functionality of the system rather than its efficiency given the sunny Spanish weather.

If the FIA believes the system represents a safety improvement for F1 it can simply include the change in the 2019 technical regulations without putting it through a vote to the teams.

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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.