F1: Ferrari runs updated halo

Ferrari's second-generation Formula 1 halo cockpit protection device has made its track debut, with Sebastian Vettel running the system in opening practice for the British Grand Prix.

The team conducted static tests of the device, dubbed "halo 2," in Austria last Thursday with the primary focus on driver extraction. It is believed these tests were successful and Ferrari had planned to run the device on its SF16-H later that weekend, before changing its plans and choosing to do so one week later at Silverstone.

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Vettel completed an installation lap on Friday morning with the halo fitted, before removing it and continuing with his planned program.

The device has been enhanced since it first appeared in pre-season testing at Barcelona, when Vettel and team-mate Kimi Raikkonen both tried it for one lap. The latest version is made of titanium, making it lighter but just as robust, and the design of the structure has been tweaked slightly.

Following this weekend's test, further improvements are expected with another update planned ahead of its introduction on all cars in 2017. It is anticipated the FIA will give the final design the green light at some point before the summer break.

Teams are keen for a rubber-stamping of the design as soon as possible with design plans already at an advanced stage for 2017, when sweeping changes to the bodywork regulations will introduced.

Originally on Autosport.com