First images of updated two-seater Formula 1 car revealed

F1 intends to have a pair of two-seater experience cars running at every event next year, having instigated a limited programme for 2017.

The project is overseen by former Minardi boss Paul Stoddart, with former Jordan, Renault and Toyota technical director Mike Gascoyne as its technical chief.

The uprated two-seater will still be based on the original 1998 Tyrrell 026 design and running gear, but will feature a more contemporary bodykit after its revision.

New tubs are also being built, and will feature upgrades including a less obtrusive roll hoop bulkhead, offering the passenger a better view.

"Paul obviously wants to update these cars to give them a more modern look, and there are some things that we've got to do from a reliability point of view," Gascoyne told Autosport, outlining his plan for the car's revamp.

"We're going to put a modern aero package on it, so a new front wing, bargeboards, and rear wing to reflect the current regulations.

"We're going to make two new chassis, because we want to incorporate changes to improve driver fit, and get bigger passengers in, and make them more comfortable and safer.

"Also we can put dash displays in for the passengers, so they will be able to see where they are on the circuit."

Gascoyne stressed that the focus is on improving the experience for passengers.

"We can improve the view for the passenger - we can make that seat bulkhead quite a bit smaller," he said.

"Without compromising on safety, we can improve it in lots of areas.

"We don't need to take weight out of it or anything; what we're looking at doing is improving the experience for the passenger - what he can see, what displays are available to him, comfort."