Latest generation F2 car revealed – complete with halo

The FIA has revealed the latest generation of Formula 2 car – and it features the latest in Formula 1 design philosophy.

The new car features the halo safety device that was recently confirmed as mandatory in F1 from next season. Powered by a 3.4-litre turbo-charged V6 engine delivering 620 bhp, the latest car will compete until the end of the 2020 season and has been introduced to bring the series in line with the latest evolution of F1 design.

“This is an important moment for the FIA as we complete the single-seater pyramid from karting right through to the pinnacle of motor sport,” FIA director of F1 Charlie Whiting said. “The plan for a more structured junior formula ladder is designed to feature cars that better prepare drivers for the next step. For Formula 2, that means we needed a car that will not only educate, but will also allow the drivers that are most ready for F1 to shine brightest.”

As in previous years, the latest F2 car will mirror the top tier of single-seaters with a Virtual Safety Car system, Drag Reduction System (DRS) and now the halo safety device – although the FIA admits the latter was only incorporated into the design in its final stages. An updated ECU is an effort to future-proof the car’s components, featuring possibilities for the car to evolve further in future years. 

Pirelli will again supply the F2 championship in 2018 and following performance testing in December, the first cars are set to be delivered to teams in mid-January next year.