Whiting not in favour of 'active' cockpit safety system

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During last week's F1 Strategy Group talks in Geneva, teams apparently discussed the introduction of an 'active' cockpit safety system as an alternative to the currently envisaged Halo concept.

The system would rely on cutting-edge detection technology to trigger a cockpit protection component which would pop out and protect the cockpit environment and the driver from impact or from an incoming object.

FIA Race Director Charlie Whiting did not view the concept as practical however.

"I've seen it – someone has sent me one of these designs - but I think it would be wholly impractical to be honest," he said.

"I cannot see how you can deploy it in the right amount of time. I think the inventor, if we can call it that, misunderstands...

"A driver is not going to see something coming and think 'oh my goodness, I better push that button'. Honestly I don't think that is feasible."

F1's governing body has scrapped its plan to introduce a cockpit protection device - be it the halo or aeroscreen concept - for the 2017 season following its rejection by the top six teams at last week's meeting in Geneva.

The FIA said that "it would be prudent to use the remainder of this year and early next year to further evaluate the full potential of all options before final confirmation."

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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.