Core Insights - Mercedes-Benz Group reported a significant decline in Q3 2025 financial performance, with revenue dropping by 6.9% year-over-year to €32.15 billion and net profit decreasing by 30.8% to €1.19 billion [1] - The company is facing challenges such as increased layoff costs, U.S. tariff pressures, and weak demand, prompting a restructuring plan aimed at saving €5 billion globally by 2027 [1] Financial Performance - Q3 2025 revenue: €32.15 billion, down from €34.53 billion in Q3 2024, a decrease of 6.9% [1] - Q3 2025 operating profit: €750 million, down 70.2% from €2.52 billion in Q3 2024 [1] - Adjusted EBIT for Q3 2025: €2.10 billion, down 17.3% from €2.54 billion in Q3 2024 [1] - Net profit for Q3 2025: €1.19 billion, down 30.8% from €1.72 billion in Q3 2024 [1] - Free cash flow for Q3 2025: €1.37 billion, down 42.9% from €2.39 billion in Q3 2024 [1] Sales Performance - Global sales in Q3 2025 reached 525,300 units, a decline of 12% year-over-year [2] - Passenger car sales: 441,450 units, down 12.3% from the previous year [2] - Electric vehicle sales increased by 10% to 96,300 units, with pure electric vehicle sales rising by 22% to 51,200 units [2] - In Europe, Q3 sales were 160,800 units, up 1% year-over-year, while North America and Asia saw declines of 1% and 7%, respectively [2] Market Context - The challenges faced by Mercedes-Benz are reflective of broader issues within the luxury automotive sector, with competitors like BMW and Porsche also experiencing sales declines [4] - BMW's Q3 2025 deliveries were 588,300 units, an increase of 8.8%, but with a slight decline in China [4] - The competitive landscape is shifting, with Mercedes-Benz planning new electric models such as the all-electric GLC and CLA, aiming to adapt to changing market dynamics [4][6]

Core Viewpoint - Mercedes-Benz is implementing its largest layoff plan in history, aiming to encourage around 30,000 employees to voluntarily leave by offering substantial severance packages, with the goal of saving approximately €5 billion annually by 2027 [3][5]. Group 1: Layoff Plan and Compensation - Approximately 4,000 employees have accepted the voluntary severance package, with senior management potentially receiving up to €500,000 (over 4 million RMB) in compensation [3][5]. - The severance package is designed with a gradient structure based on job level and years of service, including an "accelerated bonus" to incentivize early decision-making [5][7]. - The layoff plan primarily targets employees in engineering, administration, and IT sectors, with applications open until March 2026 [7]. Group 2: Market Performance and Sales Decline - Mercedes-Benz reported a significant decline in global sales, with a 12% year-on-year drop in Q3, totaling 525,300 vehicles sold [12]. - In China, the largest single market for Mercedes-Benz, sales fell by 27% year-on-year in Q3, worsening from a 19% decline in Q2 [12][13]. - The U.S. market also faced challenges, with a 17% decrease in sales to 70,800 vehicles [12]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape and Pricing Strategy - The automotive industry in Germany is experiencing overall performance declines, with competitors like BMW and Volkswagen also reporting reduced sales and profits [7][8]. - Mercedes-Benz has seen drastic price reductions for several models, with discounts reaching up to 50% in some cases, driven by increased market competition [9][10]. - The company is adjusting its marketing strategies to cope with the competitive environment, as luxury brands are becoming more common and price-sensitive [10]. Group 4: Future Outlook and Product Strategy - Despite challenges in major markets, Mercedes-Benz is focusing on long-term customer value and high-end product experiences in China [13]. - The company is accelerating product updates, with plans for new electric models and high-end vehicles set to launch in the near future [13].

Group 1: Market Dynamics - The luxury car market is undergoing a significant adjustment, with BBA (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi) showing a differentiated trend: BMW is leading, Mercedes-Benz is under pressure, and Audi is catching up [1] - BMW is the only company among BBA to achieve positive sales growth, with global deliveries reaching 588,300 units in Q3, up 8.8% year-on-year, and a total of 1,795,900 units in the first three quarters, up 2.4% [1] - In contrast, Mercedes-Benz's Q3 global sales fell to 525,300 units, down 12% year-on-year, with a total of 1,601,600 units in the first three quarters, down 9% [1][3] - Audi's Q3 global sales were 397,100 units, a decrease of 2.5%, with a total of 1,191,100 units in the first three quarters, down 4.8% [1] Group 2: Challenges in the Chinese Market - The Chinese market poses a significant challenge for BBA, with BMW's Q3 deliveries in China slightly declining by 0.4% to 147,100 units, and a cumulative drop of 11.2% to 464,000 units in the first three quarters [3] - Mercedes-Benz faced a more severe decline, with Q3 deliveries in China plummeting 27% to 125,000 units, and a total drop of 18% to 418,000 units in the first three quarters [3] - Audi's sales in China showed signs of recovery, with its joint venture reporting a 13.5% increase in sales to 58,000 units in the first three quarters [3] Group 3: Pricing and Competitive Pressure - The pricing structure of BBA is under pressure, particularly in the 200,000 to 400,000 RMB price range, where local brands are challenging entry-level models [4] - In the 200,000 to 300,000 RMB segment, brands like Zeekr and Tesla are eroding BBA's market share with better performance and value [4] - BMW has revised its profit forecast for 2025, expecting a pre-tax profit "slightly below" last year's 10.97 billion euros (approximately 90.98 billion RMB) due to increased tariff costs and support for local dealers [4][5] Group 4: Electrification Strategies - BBA's electrification strategies are diverging, with BMW leading, Mercedes-Benz aggressively pushing forward, and Audi taking a more pragmatic approach [6] - BMW's electric vehicle sales reached 323,000 units in the first three quarters, up 10% year-on-year [7] - Mercedes-Benz is launching a significant product offensive, with plans to introduce at least 40 new models by the end of 2027, including the new electric GLC targeting the Chinese luxury electric SUV market [8] - Audi is adjusting its electric strategy, focusing on a balanced approach between long-term electric goals and flexible product offerings, with new models like the Q6L e-tron [9] Group 5: Current Market Trends - The hybrid market remains a crucial support for BBA, with BMW's hybrid vehicle sales growing 8% to 152,000 units in Q3 [9] - The pure electric market is outpacing hybrids in China, with a year-on-year growth of 32.4% in September, indicating a shift in consumer preference [9] - As BBA collectively intensifies its focus on electric products, a competitive battle for market share in the future landscape is unfolding in China [9]

Core Insights - The luxury car market is undergoing significant changes, with BBA (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi) showing a divergence in performance: BMW is leading, Mercedes-Benz is under pressure, and Audi is catching up [1] Group 1: Sales Performance - BMW is the only company among BBA to achieve positive sales growth, with global deliveries reaching 588,300 units in Q3, a year-on-year increase of 8.8%, and a total of 1,795,900 units for the first three quarters, up 2.4% [1] - Mercedes-Benz's Q3 global sales were 525,300 units, down 12% year-on-year and 4% quarter-on-quarter, with a total of 1,601,600 units for the first three quarters, a decrease of 9% [1] - Audi's Q3 global sales were 397,100 units, a year-on-year decline of 2.5%, with total sales for the first three quarters at 1,191,100 units, down 4.8% [1] Group 2: Market Challenges in China - BMW's sales in China fell by 0.4% in Q3 to 147,100 units, with a cumulative decline of 11.2% to 464,900 units for the first three quarters, making China the only market where BMW experienced a downturn [3] - Mercedes-Benz faced a significant drop in China, with Q3 deliveries plummeting 27% to 125,000 units and a total decline of 18% to 418,000 units for the first three quarters, marking China as its largest market decline [5] - Audi's sales in China showed signs of recovery, with its joint venture reporting a 13.5% increase in sales for the first three quarters [5] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The market share of German brands has decreased from 18.4% in January 2025 to 14.3% in September 2025, indicating increased competition from local brands [5] - In the 200,000 to 300,000 yuan price range, local brands are challenging BBA's entry-level models, while in the higher price segments, brands like NIO and Li Auto are competing for core customers [6] Group 4: Profit Outlook - Due to the impact of the Chinese market, BMW revised its full-year profit forecast, now expecting a pre-tax profit "slightly lower" than last year's 10.97 billion euros (approximately 90.98 billion yuan) [6] Group 5: Electrification Strategies - BMW leads in electrification, with 323,000 electric vehicle deliveries in the first three quarters, a 10% increase [8] - Mercedes-Benz is launching a major product offensive in the electric vehicle sector, with plans to introduce at least 40 new models by the end of 2027 [9] - Audi is adjusting its electrification strategy, focusing on a balanced approach between long-term electric goals and flexible product offerings [11]

Core Insights - The luxury car market is undergoing significant adjustments, with BBA (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi) showing a divergence in performance: BMW is leading, Mercedes-Benz is under pressure, and Audi is catching up [1] BMW Performance - BMW is the only company among BBA to achieve positive sales growth, with global deliveries reaching 588,300 units in Q3, a year-on-year increase of 8.8%, and a total of 1,795,900 units for the first three quarters, up 2.4% [1] - Strong performance in North America and Europe has offset the decline in the Chinese market [1] - In China, BMW delivered 147,121 vehicles in Q3, a slight decrease of 0.4%, with a cumulative drop of 11.2% to 464,971 units for the first three quarters [2][3] Mercedes-Benz Performance - Mercedes-Benz faced more significant sales pressure, with Q3 global sales dropping to 525,300 units, down 12% year-on-year and 4% quarter-on-quarter, totaling 1,601,600 units for the first three quarters, a decrease of 9% [1][4] - In China, Mercedes-Benz's Q3 deliveries plummeted by 27% to 125,000 units, with a cumulative decline of 18% to 418,000 units for the first three quarters [4] Audi Performance - Audi's Q3 global sales were 397,100 units, a year-on-year decline of 2.5%, with a total of 1,191,100 units for the first three quarters, down 4.8% [1] - The sales gap between Audi and BMW has widened to over 600,000 units [1] Market Dynamics - The luxury car market in China is becoming increasingly competitive, with domestic brands challenging BBA's entry-level models in the 200,000 to 400,000 yuan price range [4][5] - The market share of German brands has decreased from 18.4% in January 2025 to 14.3% in September 2025 [4] Profit Outlook - Due to the impact of the Chinese market, BMW has revised its full-year profit forecast, expecting a pre-tax profit "slightly below" last year's €10.97 billion (approximately 90.98 billion yuan) [5][6] Electrification Strategies - BBA's electrification paths are diverging: BMW is leading, Mercedes-Benz is aggressively pushing forward, and Audi is taking a more pragmatic approach [7] - BMW's electric vehicle sales reached 323,000 units in the first three quarters, a year-on-year increase of 10% [8] - Mercedes-Benz is launching a major product offensive in the electric vehicle sector, with plans to introduce at least 40 new models by the end of 2027 [9] - Audi is adjusting its electrification strategy, focusing on a balanced approach between long-term electric goals and flexible product offerings [9] Hybrid Market - The hybrid market remains a crucial support for BBA, with BMW's hybrid vehicle sales increasing by 8% to 152,000 units in Q3 [10] - Mercedes-Benz also relies on the hybrid market, delivering 96,000 hybrid vehicles, a year-on-year increase of 10% [11]

| | Q3 2025 | Change | Chang | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | | Q2 2025 | Q3 20 | | Mercedes-Benz Group | 525,300 | -4% | -12% | | - thereof BEVs | 51,200 | +22% | +9% | | Mercedes-Benz Cars | 441,500 | -3% | -12% | | - thereof BEVs | 42,600 | +22% | 0% | | । thereof xEVs | 96,300 | +3% | +10% | | Mercedes-Benz Cars sales by segments* | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Top-End | 67,800 | +5% | +10% | | Core | 249,800 | -9% | -17% | | Entry | 123,800 | +8% | -12% | 梅赛德斯-奔驰乘用车第三季度销售 44.15 万辆。受中国市场环境及美国产品库存调控影 ...

Group 1: Event Overview - The 2025 Munich Motor Show (IAA Mobility) commenced on September 8, 2025, with a public opening from September 9 to 14, focusing on mobility, sustainability, and technological innovation [2] - Major German automakers such as Volkswagen Group, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz showcased their latest models, alongside international companies like Opel, Hyundai, and Lucid [2][3] - The number of Chinese exhibitors increased significantly, with 116 companies participating, up from 70 in 2023, making them the largest group after German firms [2] Group 2: Electric Vehicle Highlights - BMW unveiled the new generation iX3, featuring advanced technologies and set for large-scale sales in Europe starting March 2026 [3] - Mercedes-Benz launched the all-new electric GLC, boasting significant design changes and a maximum WLTP range of 713 kilometers [3] - Volkswagen introduced the ID.Polo, an electric successor to the classic Polo, expected to debut in May 2026 [4] Group 3: International Participation - Hyundai presented the IONIQ 3 concept car, with the production version anticipated in Q3 2026 [5] - Lucid showcased the new electric SUV Gravity, which is available for pre-order in Europe and expected to deliver in early 2026 [5] - Stellantis expressed concerns over European emissions regulations, warning that the targets for 2030 and 2035 may not be achievable without policy support [5][6] Group 4: Chinese Automakers' Expansion - Chinese brands like BYD, Xpeng, and Leap Motor showcased multiple new models, indicating strong ambitions in the European market [7][8] - BYD announced plans to open over 1,000 stores in Europe by the end of 2023 and aims to launch 3-4 new plug-in hybrid models in the next six months [8] - Changan presented its global strategic models S05 and S07, with the S05 officially launching in Europe [9] Group 5: Component Suppliers and Technology - A large contingent of Chinese component suppliers participated, including battery manufacturers like CATL and technology firms focusing on autonomous driving [11][12] - Companies like Momenta and Horizon showcased their latest advancements in autonomous driving technology, with Momenta announcing partnerships with over 20 global automakers [12] - The trend of "ecological export" was highlighted, with Chinese firms moving from single vehicle exports to comprehensive ecosystem solutions [11][14] Group 6: Competitive Dynamics - The competition between Chinese and European automakers is intensifying, with Chinese brands capturing 9.9% of the European electric vehicle market as of July 2023 [14] - Executives from BMW and Mercedes-Benz acknowledged the fierce competition in the Chinese market and emphasized the importance of collaboration with local partners [15][16] - The evolving "co-opetition" model is reshaping the global automotive landscape, driving technological advancements and market sharing [17][18]

Core Insights - The 2025 Munich Motor Show (IAA Mobility) focuses on mobility, sustainability, and technological innovation, featuring major German automakers and a significant presence from Chinese companies [2][3]. Group 1: Event Overview - The event runs from September 8 to 14, 2025, with a theme of "It's all about mobility" [2]. - Major German automakers like Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz showcase new electric vehicles, while foreign companies such as Opel, Hyundai, and Lucid also participate [3][4]. - Chinese exhibitors have increased significantly, with 116 companies registered, up from 70 in 2023, making them the second-largest group after German firms [2]. Group 2: Electric Vehicle Highlights - BMW unveils the new generation iX3, set for large-scale sales in Europe starting March 2026, featuring advanced technologies [3][4]. - Mercedes-Benz launches the all-new electric GLC, boasting a range of up to 713 kilometers under WLTP conditions [3]. - Volkswagen introduces the ID.Polo, an electric successor to the classic Polo, expected to debut in May 2026 [4]. Group 3: Chinese Automakers' Expansion - Chinese brands like BYD, Xpeng, and Leap Motor showcase multiple new models, indicating strong ambitions in the European market [7][8]. - BYD announces plans to open over 1,000 stores in Europe by the end of 2023 and aims to launch several hybrid models in the next six months [8]. - Xpeng reveals its first European R&D center and emphasizes its focus on AI and robotics in automotive technology [7]. Group 4: Industry Challenges and Responses - European automakers express concerns over EU emissions regulations, with Stellantis warning that current targets may lead to a 30% market shrinkage [4][5]. - Executives from Mercedes-Benz and BMW criticize the EU's plans to phase out combustion engines by 2035, advocating for a more comprehensive emissions accounting system [5]. Group 5: Technological Innovations - Chinese component manufacturers, including CATL and Horizon Robotics, showcase advancements in battery technology and autonomous driving systems [10][11]. - Companies like Momenta and Horizon present their latest autonomous driving solutions, with Momenta announcing partnerships with over 20 global automakers [11][12]. Group 6: Competitive Landscape - The competition between Chinese and European automakers intensifies, with Chinese brands capturing 9.9% of the European electric vehicle market as of July 2023 [13]. - Collaborative efforts between companies, such as Xpeng and Volkswagen, highlight a trend of "co-opetition" in the industry, fostering innovation and market growth [15][16].