F1 to trial new rain safety solution in Abu Dhabi

Formula 1 drivers will test a new rain safety system during practice of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The new process will be trialled at the end of FP1 and will trigger when the "low grip" message is displayed by Race Control.

The software will then ensure all of the FIA standard red rain lights come on at the same time on each car, utilising special new software developed by the governing body.

Drivers have previously had to manually switch their rain lights on, which means there is a risk that they might not be triggered when conditions have deteriorated.

FIA testing wider measures to increase visibility in rain

FIA F1 Race Director Niels Wittich confirmed that a test would take place in the pre-event notes.

"After all cars have taken the chequered flag, a Double Yellow Sector and Low Grip will be activated," said Wittich.

"After approximately 20 seconds Low Grip will be disabled. Another 10 seconds later VSC will be activated. After approximately 20 seconds VSC will be disabled."

If the test is successful, it is likely that the solution could be implemented as early as next year.

This is part of wider measures by the FIA to increase visibility during wet conditions, after concerns over the spray generated by the current ground effect cars caused problems.

The FIA tested a special aero package at Silverstone earlier this year, that can be retrofitted to each car if visibility is too poor to race.