Haas has become the first team to launch its 2019 car ahead of the new Formula 1 season, revealing an all-new look for the eagerly-anticipated VF-19.

The American outfit, which enters its fourth season in F1, struck a deal together with energy drinks company Rich Energy in late 2018 as its new title sponsor from this year.

The firm’s black-and-gold colour scheme was the influence for the 2019 livery, Haas originally sported a grey and red livery in its first three years.

The team finished a career-best fifth in the constructors’ standings last season, with the aim of progressing a position higher to head the midfield this campaign.

“This is the time of the season when you hope you’ve got designs right and you can be competitive straight away,” said Haas F1 team owner Gene Haas.

“The new car looks distinctive, not only in terms of its color scheme, but also with the new regulations in play.

“Hopefully those design changes brought in for 2019 will improve the racing on-track, and more importantly give us a shot at making more of an impact at each grand prix.”

The new-look Haas showed off its latest look on last year’s car, although the first glimpse of the simplified 2019 front wing was visible.

Speaking about the team’s expectations ahead of the season, team principal Gunther Steiner said: “It’s important that we keep progressing as a team, and this season is no different.

“While 2018 delivered our best season to-date, the year showed, sometimes sharply, that we still have areas to improve on as a team.”

Rich Energy’s CEO Williams Storey added: “I’m naturally delighted to finally see the Rich Energy colours and stag logo in Formula 1 with Haas F1 Team.

“Partnering with the team has already significantly raised the profile of our brand, this livery unveil will again elevate us to another level.”