Mercedes to quit DTM...

...to enter Formula E. Another big manufacturer joins electric racing!

And so an era ends for Mercedes, with its departure from DTM. Having raced for 26 seasons since the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft was founded in 1984 and competing in 18 consecutive championships since changing over to its new format in 2000, the most successful DTM manufacturer has announced it will be leaving the sport to focus its efforts on both Formula 1 and Formula E. VP of Marketing at Mercedes-Benz Cars, Dr Jen Thiemer said, "It is now time to start on a new path."

The glory days!

The fact that Mercedes is to enter Formula E should come as no surprise, given an announcement was made last year after an option agreement was signed between Mercedes Grand Prix and Formula E Operations Ltd for a 2018/19 entry. This has now been extended to the 2019/20 season.

It is a step to join other major manufacturers already involved in the series, with Thiemer adding, "Formula E is a significant step in order to demonstrate the performance of our attractive battery powered electric vehicles, as well as giving an emotional spin to our EQ technology brand through motorsport and marketing." But what does this all mean for DTM? With Mercedes pulling out, the fight falls to Audi - already in Formula E - and BMW, which is joining in the 2018 season. Could BMW and Audi also pull the plug, killing off the series as we know it?

And the future...

Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport and Executive Director, sees the electrified series as a form of racing that reflects the current automotive landscape. "Formula E is like an exciting start-up venture: it offers a brand new format, combining racing with a strong event character, in order to promote current and future technologies."

As for this year's DTM, Mercedes-AMG will carry on as was. Winning a championship would be some way to announce your departure...