Lewis Hamilton has stunned Formula 1 by announcing he will quit the sport after 2018 to take part in Mercedes' new Formula E project, which will see them join from Season 6.

The shocking switch is part of a new two-year deal with the German manufacturer worth around £80m in total, which, despite regular claims of being "close", had dragged on longer than many expected.

Now, the reason is clear as the Briton had a late change in heart with a desire to race in the all-electric series with Mercedes under the guidance of former teammate Nico Rosberg, who will be the team boss.

"I have been #Blessed to achieve so much in F1 these past 11 years and, based on Melbourne, as long as my team learns to do maths, I should become champion for an incredible fifth time," he claimed.

"Now though, my focus is on the next chapter of my life and in order to be famous in Hollywood, I realised I need to follow my vegan instincts and go eco-friendly by switching to Formula E.

"The next generation car looks stunning and with Mercedes, I'm delighted to meet more of the best fans around the world."

Motorsport boss Toto Wolff praised Hamilton's courage to make what is a bold move to Formula E and believes it justifies Mercedes' own decision to enter the category.

"I really can't thank Lewis enough for the incredible work he has put in with us on the F1 side since 2013 and I am so pleased he will join us in our new and exciting venture in Formula E," said the Austrian.

"Lewis, like everyone, understands the need to save the planet and his move will bring great attention to electric vehicles which, despite the big loss to our F1 operation, is worth it for the commercial credit I will receive."

Hamilton's surprise departure at the end of 2018 could free the path for Daniel Ricciardo to move from Red Bull and may well ease some pressure on Valtteri Bottas with the Finn only on a single-year deal with Mercedes.