Lotus has reportedly begun initial talks with Mercedes about using its power unit in 2015 as it looks to dump the struggling Renault unit.
Whilst the Enstone team has scored just eight points in eight races with the under-developed E22, the team has highlighted on a number of occasions that one of the major problems with the car is the power unit.
It’s an issue which resulted in Red Bull team principal Christian Horner demanding change at the French manufacturer after yet another issue hit Sebastian Vettel in Austria as well as the two Toro Rosso cars.
Sources within Lotus have confirmed that they are eyeing a deal with Mercedes for next season, not just to boost their points-scoring ability, but to also encourage sponsors to remain loyal.
It’s also the cheapest option according to sources which could help the financially stuggling outfit. A power unit deal with Mercedes is estimated to cost just £15 million ($26m) a season, compared to Ferrari at £17.5m ($30m) and Lotus’s current supplier Renault at over £21m ($36m).
Mercedes will also be looking to supply a fourth team with the loss of long-term partner McLaren, which will switch to Honda power.
Discussion about this post