Grosjean: Merc engine deal is attractive

Romain Grosjean has welcomed Lotus’ new deal with Mercedes, admitting it makes the team a “more attractive” proposition for 2015.

Grosjean has yet to sign a deal for next season and has been looking up and down the paddock given his frustrations with his team’s Renault engine.

With just eight points to his name his season, 2014 has been a dismal campaign for the Frenchman and his team with Renault carrying much of the blame.

Next season, though, Lotus are ditching Renault power for Mercedes and that could yet play a role in Grosjean’s decision about his future.

“It [the engine deal] certainly makes things look more attractive around here,” he told Autosport.

“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.”

Part of the swap to Mercedes, though, will include changing from Total to Petronas fuel and lubricants. And even though Total have backed Grosjean’s career, he does not foresee this being a problem.

“I think they understand. 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.”