Will F1 cars have windscreens?

It’s a controversial question in Formula 1 circles, but the question of safety is more important than ever.

Published: September 17, 2016 at 1:00 pm

After the recent, and extremely tragic death of F1 driver Jules Bianchi, it’s looking increasingly likely that Formula 1 cars will eventually incorporate some sort of device, other than a helmet, to help protect the driver’s head. Ferrari and Mercedes have tested similar ‘halo’ systems, made up of a sort of hoop around the open cockpit. Red Bull Racing has gone further, by trying out an actual windscreen (pictured above). But the idea of a closed or partially-closed cockpit remains a very controversial idea, with some drivers all for it while others are actively speaking out against the idea.

Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.