F1: Mercedes engine excites Grosjean

Romain Grosjean says the Lotus Formula 1 team's switch from Renault to Mercedes engines next season increases the chances he will remain with the squad in 2015.

Grosjean is out of contract at the end of this F1 season and has been frustrated by Lotus' lack of performance this year, having been a podium regular in 2014. The Franco-Swiss driver has been vocal in his disappointment with Renault's engine, but suggested his team's deal to run Mercedes units from 2015 – announced ahead of this weekend's Russian Grand Prix – gives Lotus an opportunity to reverse its fortunes in a similar fashion to the way Williams has this year.

"It [the engine deal] certainly makes things look more attractive around here," Grosjean said. "It's not a bad place to be. It's not one of the four big teams, it's not a team that's going to be world champion, but it's certainly a team that can do a good car and be where Williams is this year.

"They were nowhere last year, and with a good engine and a good car they've been at the front this year, so it could [also] be the case [for Lotus]. We know Mercedes is the strongest power unit on the grid; we know they will probably keep a good advantage next year, so that helps Lotus a lot."

The Mercedes deal includes switching from Total to Petronas fuel and lubricants. Although Total supports his career, Grosjean does not expect this to pose any problem to him remaining with Lotus.

"I think they understand," he added. "There are discussions, of course, but the relationship is more than just a sticker sponsor. It's a long relationship and we want to keep going, so even though it's not Total fuel in the car it doesn't mean I won't be a Total driver."

MALDONADO BACKS MOVE

Grosjean's teammate Pastor Maldonado, who is already confirmed as a Lotus driver for next season, said he expected the Mercedes engine to make an 'automatic' difference to the team's fortunes.

"This is a very good help, not only for the power, and not only because we will be automatically quicker than this year – because it is more than half a second engine to engine – but how we are working around the engine," Maldonado said. "That will be very good, because you have more margin to play with the power unit and the aerodynamic sides of the car.

"It's still an early time; we need to keep going and keep working, but hopefully there is a good step forward for next year."