Vandoorne explains move into Formula E

Stoffel Vandoorne says the opportunity to forge ties to a motorsport manufacturer was crucial in his switch to Formula E with the Mercedes-affiliated HWA team. The Belgian will switch to the all-electric series after two underwhelming years in Formula 1 with McLaren.

Vandoorne entered F1 with a hefty junior reputation behind him, but he was vastly outperformed by Fernando Alonso across the past two years.

Not only will Vandoorne drive in FE next year, but he will also fulfil simulator duties for Mercedes' F1 team.

When HWA make way for a Mercedes FE team next year, Vandoorne could be in pole position for a spot, having reportedly received significant backing from the Silver Arrows' chief Toto Wolff.

Only one week left till the 2018/19 @FIAFormulaE season kicks off. Get ready to race! @GaryPaffett @svandoorne#HWA #HWAAG #FormulaE pic.twitter.com/Bg1qfGi6mS — HWA AG Official (@hwaag_official) December 8, 2018

"I had a lot of discussions with Toto and their whole project, Mercedes, was very attractive," Vandoorne said.

"I think for me what was important is to be involved with a manufacturer. I think to be linked with Mercedes and to work on that kind of level was extremely attractive.

"I had the opportunity to go there, I didn't really doubt about that, and I'm sure that we can be competitive in the future.

"When Mercedes sign up for something, they always do it properly, so I'm 100 percent sure they'll put a lot of effort into that program as well, which is very exciting."

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