Haas expecting multiple update cycles early in 2017

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Haas F1 Team boss Guenther Steiner believes teams will be updating cars at a frantic pace in the early part of 2017 as Formula 1 gets to grips with its new regulations.

Steiner is expecting the majority of teams to launch basic-spec cars when pre-season testing gets underway in Barcelona in February, and then introduce upgrade packages accordingly at the subsequent second test and opening races of the season.

Steiner said that Haas' 2017 contender was still a work in progress but that at some point the design shall be signed and sealed.

"There is a point where you cannot hold back any more, as you cannot produce it any more," Steiner said.

"I think the temptation will be to have a zero version, and then immediately have big updates. You need a zero version to go testing, so that is the plan at the moment – to see what at the last moment you can sign off on the car.

"Everyone now is well organised and you know how long it takes to make a front wing, so there is a point where you have to sign off.

"Then everybody will be planning upgrades, as I think at the beginning the upgrades will be pretty steep."

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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.