全球车企为何转入电动化战略“回调期”

Core Viewpoint - Major global automakers are adjusting their electrification strategies, reflecting a shift from aggressive timelines for electric vehicle (EV) transitions to a more balanced approach that includes internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid models [1][2][3] Group 1: Company Adjustments - Audi has withdrawn its plan to completely stop developing and selling ICE vehicles by 2033, focusing instead on electric models while still launching new ICE and plug-in hybrid models from 2024 to 2026 [1] - Mercedes-Benz has revised its electrification goals, shifting from a full transition to electric vehicles to a strategy where new energy vehicles (including hybrids) will account for up to 50% of sales by 2030 [1][2] - BMW has restarted its range-extended hybrid technology and lowered its sales expectations for electric models by over 20% [1][2] Group 2: Market Dynamics - The luxury automotive sector is facing significant challenges, with Audi's global sales down over 10% and electric vehicle sales down 8%, while Mercedes-Benz's electric vehicle sales fell by 23% [2][3] - BMW's total sales decreased by 4%, but its electric vehicle sales grew by 13.5% to 427,000 units, highlighting a mixed performance across the sector [2][3] Group 3: Profitability Challenges - Audi's operating profit fell nearly 40%, with a profit margin dropping to 6%; Mercedes-Benz's EBIT fell over 30%, and net profit declined nearly 30%; BMW's EBIT dropped by 39.2%, with a profit margin of 7.7% [3] - The profitability pressures are prompting traditional luxury automakers to reassess their aggressive electrification timelines, focusing on maintaining financial stability [3][4] Group 4: Broader Industry Trends - The trend of adjusting electrification strategies is not limited to German automakers but extends to the broader automotive industry, including ultra-luxury brands like Ferrari, Porsche, and Maserati, which are also delaying or revising their electric vehicle plans [5][6] - Japanese automakers like Honda are also revising their electrification budgets and sales targets, reflecting a need for adaptability in response to market conditions [6] Group 5: Strategic Insights - Analysts suggest that the adjustments reflect a rational return to industry development norms, acknowledging the complexities of technology maturation, cost control, and consumer acceptance [6][7] - The focus on maintaining profitable ICE and hybrid models is seen as essential for funding electric vehicle development and ensuring financial resilience amid market fluctuations [7]