Hidden Kill Switch Located on Every F1 Car That Can Save a Driver's Life

There is a hidden killswitch found on every Formula 1 car that can save a driver's life.

In recent years, there have been dramatic developments in safety for F1 drivers, including the introduction of the halo. Ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, it is still vital that safety is paramount in a sport where cars can reach top speeds of 230mph.

And one of the most important safety features on F1 cars is the mandatory killswitch. Keen-eyed fans may be able to spot a red E on the bodywork of each car.

Behind that mark, there is a handle, which is compulsory under FIA regulations.

When the handle is pulled, it cuts the car's electric circuits and activates the on-board fire extinguisher. Although the design is simple, it is vital for safety.

If a car comes to a half on track, then the switch ensures that both drivers and track marshals are protected from electrical hazards or fire.

Regulations also insist that a driver must be able to trigger the system themselves, while they are strapped in with the seat belt fastened and steering wheel in place.

Lewis Hamilton. Image: NurPhoto / Contributor via Getty

Similar requirements are applied across other high-speed motor sports, highlighting the need for proper safety requirements in dangerous sports. Alongside the E symbol, fans may also notice an N on the nose of F1 cars.

Although it does not have the same life-saving role, it is still important and is used to disengage the clutch.

Marshals rely on it to roll cars off the circuit safely, especially if a driver has forgotten to put their car into neutral.

Rain-hit Belgian GP. Image: NurPhoto / Contributor via Getty

How has Formula 1 safety evolved in recent years?

The most recent Formula 1 fatality was Jules Bianchi in 2015, who tragically died nine months after he sustained severe injuries at the Japanese Grand Prix.

Bianchi had spent nine months in a coma after he crashed into a recovery vehicle during a rain-hit race.

His accident prompted a series of major changes within F1, including stricter protocol for racing in wet conditions.

In 2015, the virtual safety car was introduced, allowing race control to slow cars on track without having to deploy a physical safety car.

This was seen as a crucial development to allow marshals and recovery vehicles to operate.

The halo cockpit protection device was also introduced and is designed to protect drivers in a crash.

It has proved crucial in several incidents, including Romain Grosjean's crash at the Bahrain GP and when Max Verstappen's car landed on top of Lewis Hamilton's at the 2021 Italian GP.