Unfortunately, the first track running of the prototype wheel arches or 'spray guards', as some are informally calling them, was not an instant success.
However, as a first step and in terms of data gathering and correlation, it was a useful exercise, and at least provided the FIA with a starting point as it tackles an issue that was brought into focus by the red-flagged Belgian Grand Prix of 2021.
"Obviously it would have been perfect if everything had confirmed perfectly and we already had a solution to apply in October or something like that," says FIA single-seater director Nicolas Tombazis.
"But that wasn't the case. We are completely committed to getting this to work because we feel that sooner or later, it will make the difference between a race being cancelled potentially, or a race happening.
"And I think if over its lifetime, if it saves a race and 100,000 people from suffering a situation like a Spa in 2021, if even once it makes a difference, I think it's well worth it."
It was that controversial Belgian event and the pitiful sight of seeing the cars trailing around behind the safety car and a result being declared that fuelled efforts to reduce spray and improve visibility.
The aim was to create something that could be fitted to cars on occasions when rain is so heavy that in normal circumstances it would not be possible to run.
It took a lot of work to create the devices that were trialled at Silverstone. Essentially, the prototypes are in two parts, with the top of each wheel covered, and a secondary element that looks a little like a sideways bargeboard located close to ground level. The whole arrangement is attached to the upright and thus moves with the wheel.
Source: Autosport