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Manor to use Mercedes engines from 2016

Manor Marussia F1 Team's British driver William Stevens powers his car during the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix in Singapore on September 20, 2015
PARIS - Formula One racing team Manor-Marussia has struck a deal to race with cutting edge Mercedes-Benz hybrid motors as of the 2016 season, the German motor giant said on Thursday.

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

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

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

"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," said the former driver.

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.

"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," Wolff said.

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."

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