Manor to use Mercedes engines in 2016

Paris - Formula 1 racing team Manor-Marussia has struck a deal to  race with cutting edge Mercedes-Benz hybrid motors as of the 2016 season, the automaker said on Thursday (Oct 1).

The Marussia-Ferrari used by current drivers Will Stevens, Roberto Merhi and newcomer Alexander Rossi, has failed to win a single point this season.

Following the crash that led to driver Jules Bianchi's death, the troubled team was eventually saved from going under after spending a six months period out of competition.

New partnership

Team principal John Booth is now doubly pleased having secured a better performing motor.

Booth said: "I am delighted to announce our new Power Unit partnership with Mercedes-Benz for the 2016 season and beyond. Ultimately the strength of the Mercedes-Benz package speaks for itself."

Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport Toto Wolff said the deal meant that his company would continue to supply three teams, with the anticipated purchase of the Lotus team by Renault.

Wolff said: "It (Manor) is a tenacious team with a fantastic competitive spirit, and we are all excited to see what step forward they can make next year with their new car coupled with the Mercedes-Benz Hybrid Power Unit."

Williams and Force India also use the engines, as well as its own currently dominant team Mercedes-AMG, led by Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg.

Mercedes director Andy Cowell said Manor had the kind of profile his company wanted to work with.

"It is a great pleasure to welcome the Manor Marussia F1 Team to our stable of customers at Mercedes. They are a team of real racers with great spirit and impressive determination to succeed."