As we move closer to the start of the 2018 Formula One season, we also move closer to the introduction of the HALO device. To that effect, the FIA have approved Dutch firm, CP Tech, to produce parts for the head protection system. Although responses towards it have been mixed, largely towards the negative, the HALO will be raced in Formula 1 from 2018 onwards. This was after the motorsport’s governing body, the FIA, declared that Halo will be a part of the technical regulations on safety grounds. CP Tech will be the official HALO supplier for the coming season.

So, when all 10 teams take to the track on February 26 for the start of pre-season testing, all cars will be fitted with Halo. The HALO will also be implemented in Formula 2 while Formula E is set to adopt the device in its 2018/19 season.

The FIA have given the green light to CP Tech, which is owned by Dutch group Nedschroef, to produce parts for the cockpit protection device. According to managing director Thomas Casey, CP Tech was selected because of their “ expertise in the complex mechanical processing of titanium and additional materials. It is another lighthouse project that we can be proud of based on our experience of more than 25 years in the motorsport business.”

With the HALO device just one of the many novelties for the upcoming season, it will be interesting to see how the teams incorporate the device. Now the 2018 F1 grid is finally complete after Williams confirmed Sergey Sirotkin alongside Lance Stroll. The F1 circus will soon be back with the car launches and the season will begin soon. Admittedly, nobody likes the HALO, but it cannot be helped. Who knows, maybe after a while we may start getting used to it. For now, at least, CP Tech will be the sole HALO supplier.