Halo Cockpit Protection Device Leads To Delay For Formula E Manufacturers

The introduction of Formula 1's Halo cockpit protection device means Formula E manufacturers "face a delay of up to two months before they can test the next-generation car," according to Scott Mitchell of MOTORSPORT. Formula E powertrain manufacturers expected to receive the Spark-built '18-19 car at the start of January, but they are reportedly "still waiting" for the Halo design to be finalized. Multiple sources have confirmed "the car will be late," with one suggesting the timeline has been pushed back by two months and delivery is expected "no earlier than mid-February." Formula E's adoption of F1's chosen cockpit protection solution "had been expected since last summer," and while the addition of the safety device has been "welcomed by the series," it has also "added significant cost to the development schedule" (MOTORSPORT, 10/2).