Since deciding to scrap the “shield” cockpit protection concept, the FIA confirmed that, starting with 2018, all Formula One cars will be wearing a Halo driver protection device.

The FIA also said that the Halo “presents the best overall safety performance” out of all the measures tested, and we can look forward to a finalized design later this year.

This version of the Halo, drawn up by designer Olcay Tuncay Karabulut, looks thinner than some of the prototypes tested in the past, so it should offer the driver greater visibility in his direct line of sight.

It also doesn’t have a V-shaped base at the top, which seemed really cumbersome on those real-world designs. As for this Ferrari SF-18 render, it’s certainly more “colorful” than this year’s car.

Ditching some red in favor of another color isn’t a huge departure for Ferrari as long as red remains the primary color, but this much gray? Can’t say we see it happening.

PHOTO GALLERY