Core Viewpoint - Mercedes-Benz is facing significant challenges in the Chinese market, with a notable decline in sales and increasing competition from domestic brands, highlighting the need for accelerated transformation in electric and intelligent vehicle offerings [2][4][5] Group 1: Sales Performance - In July, Mercedes-Benz's retail sales in China were only 26,653 units, a month-on-month decline of over 40%, marking a five-year low and falling below the 27,000-unit threshold for the first time [2] - Compared to the worst sales figures in the past three years of 36,000 units, July's sales were down by over 9,000 units, with competitors BMW and Audi significantly outperforming Mercedes-Benz, selling 40,190 and 37,600 units respectively [2] Group 2: Market Challenges - The decline in sales is attributed to both internal and external factors, including the rise of domestic brands like Wuling, Li Auto, and Zeekr, which have captured market share in the 300,000 yuan and above segment [4] - Mercedes-Benz's slow progress in electric and intelligent vehicle technology has further exacerbated the situation, as competitors like Audi have partnered with Huawei to enhance their offerings [4] Group 3: Financial Performance - For the first half of the year, Mercedes-Benz reported a revenue of 66.377 billion euros, a year-on-year decline of 8.6%, and a net profit of 2.688 billion euros, down 55.8% year-on-year [4] - In the Chinese market, total sales for the first half were 293,200 units, reflecting a year-on-year decrease of 14%, with a 19% decline in the second quarter [4] Group 4: Strategic Implications - The current predicament of Mercedes-Benz serves as a microcosm of the challenges faced by traditional luxury car manufacturers amid the automotive industry's transformation [5] - Without accelerating the transition to electric and intelligent vehicles and improving product and service quality, Mercedes-Benz risks relying solely on brand prestige, which could lead to significant challenges in both the Chinese and global markets [5]

Core Insights - Traditional luxury brands like BBA (Benz, BMW, Audi) are facing strong competition from new luxury brands represented by companies like Wenjie and Li Auto in the Chinese market [2][3] - Significant price reductions have been observed for multiple Benz models, with discounts reaching up to 50%, leading to the closure of several dealerships in cities like Tangshan, Dongying, and Luoyang [2] - Mercedes-Benz's net profit after tax dropped by 55.8% year-on-year in the first half of the year, with total sales in China declining by 14% to 293,200 units [2] - Audi and BMW also reported declines in sales, with Audi's sales down 10.2% and BMW's net profit decreasing by over 29% [2] Market Dynamics - The definition of luxury is evolving as the automotive industry accelerates towards electrification and intelligence, with younger consumers prioritizing technology and practicality over brand prestige [2][3] - Mercedes-Benz is adjusting its electrification strategy to allow for a coexistence of fuel and electric vehicles, catering to different market conditions, particularly in China [3][10] - The acceptance of intelligent technology varies globally, with Chinese consumers showing the highest willingness to adopt smart features, while North American and European consumers express concerns about privacy and data security [3][9] Technological Focus - Mercedes-Benz identifies five key future technology anchors: electronic and electrical architecture, powertrains, autonomous driving, smart cockpits, and data security [8][9] - The company emphasizes the importance of self-research in electronic architecture and powertrains to maintain competitive advantage, while opting for collaboration in areas like data security and chip development [10][12] - The strategy includes a focus on user-centered technology that enhances safety, comfort, and convenience, avoiding mere technological accumulation [6][7] Localization and Global Strategy - The unique dynamics of the Chinese market are seen as a testing ground for innovation, with Mercedes-Benz aiming to adapt its product development processes to align with local market demands [13][14] - The company plans to leverage its experiences in China to enhance its global operations, potentially developing next-generation platforms locally [13] - The shift from traditional luxury to new luxury is characterized by a blend of brand heritage with modern consumer needs, with China acting as a catalyst for this transformation [14]

Core Viewpoint - Mercedes-Benz is experiencing significant price reductions on multiple models, leading to store closures and a sharp decline in sales and profits, particularly in the Chinese market [1][3][23]. Pricing and Sales - Recent price cuts for models like the A-Class and C-Class have reached up to 50%, with the A-Class being offered at a low of 125,600 yuan compared to its original price of 251,300 to 275,700 yuan [5][24]. - The overall sales revenue for Mercedes-Benz in the first half of 2025 was 66.377 billion euros, a year-on-year decline of 8.6% [24]. Store Closures - Several Mercedes-Benz dealerships, including those in Tangshan, Dongying, and Luoyang, have closed, attributed to business adjustments [2][9]. - The closures have caused customer dissatisfaction, as many are left without support for services purchased at the now-closed dealerships [10][12]. Financial Performance - The net profit after tax for the second quarter dropped by 68.7% year-on-year, with a total net profit of 2.688 billion euros for the first half, down 55.8% [24][25]. - In China, the sales volume fell by 14% in the first half of the year, making it the market with the largest decline for Mercedes-Benz globally [27][28]. Market Position and Challenges - The company is struggling to adapt to the growing demand for electric vehicles, with its electric models not gaining significant traction in the market [28][29]. - Mercedes-Benz's reliance on traditional fuel vehicles is becoming a liability as the industry shifts towards electrification and smart technology [16][29].

Core Viewpoint - Mercedes-Benz is facing significant challenges in the Chinese market, with drastic price cuts on multiple models and a notable decline in sales and profits, leading to the closure of several dealerships [1][10][11]. Pricing and Sales - Recent price reductions for models such as the A-Class, C-Class, EQA, and EQB have reached up to 50%, with the A-Class being offered at a low of 125,600 yuan [1][2]. - The sales revenue for Mercedes-Benz in the first half of 2025 was 66.377 billion euros, a year-on-year decline of 8.6%, with a net profit drop of 55.8% [10]. - In the Chinese market, sales fell by 14% to 293,200 units in the first half of the year, marking the largest decline globally for Mercedes-Benz [10][11]. Dealership Closures - Multiple dealerships in cities like Tangshan, Dongying, and Luoyang have closed, attributed to business adjustments and authorization terminations [1][3][5]. - Customers are facing difficulties in accessing services and warranties due to the closures, leading to concerns about their rights and the continuity of service [3][5]. Technological Lag and Customer Dissatisfaction - Mercedes-Benz is perceived to be lagging in technology, particularly in electric and smart vehicle features, with customers expressing dissatisfaction over additional charges for services that are often free with competitors [6][9]. - The company is reportedly expanding its R&D team in China to improve its software and smart cockpit capabilities, indicating a response to competitive pressures [6][11]. Market Position and Future Outlook - The shift towards electric vehicles in China is significant, with new energy vehicles accounting for over 44% of total sales, while Mercedes-Benz remains heavily reliant on traditional fuel vehicles [11]. - The decline in sales and profitability, coupled with the aggressive pricing strategies, raises concerns about the long-term viability of Mercedes-Benz in the competitive automotive landscape [10][11].

Core Viewpoint - Mercedes-Benz is facing significant challenges in the Chinese market, with drastic price reductions on multiple models and a notable decline in sales and profits, leading to the closure of several dealerships [1][13][14]. Pricing and Sales Performance - Recent price cuts for models such as the A-Class and C-Class have seen discounts of up to 50%, with the A-Class being offered at a low of 125,600 yuan compared to its original price of 251,300-275,700 yuan [2][3]. - The company's revenue for the first half of 2025 was reported at 66.377 billion euros, a year-on-year decline of 8.6%, with a staggering 55.8% drop in net profit [13][14]. - In the Chinese market, sales fell by 14% to 293,200 units in the first half of 2025, marking it as the largest decline globally for Mercedes-Benz [13][14]. Dealership Closures - Multiple dealerships in cities such as Tangshan, Dongying, and Luoyang have closed, attributed to business adjustments and authorization terminations [5][6][8]. - The closures have led to customer concerns regarding service continuity and rights, as many customers find themselves unable to access previously purchased services [6][9]. Customer Experience and Technology Issues - Customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the company's lag in smart technology and the introduction of fees for features that were previously included, such as remote control and navigation services [8][12]. - The company is reportedly expanding its R&D team in China to address the technological gap, particularly in software and smart cockpit development [8]. Market Position and Future Outlook - The decline in sales is partly due to the company's heavy reliance on traditional fuel vehicles, while the market is shifting towards electric vehicles, which have seen a significant increase in sales [14]. - The overall market environment shows that new energy vehicles accounted for over 44% of total vehicle sales in China, highlighting the urgency for Mercedes-Benz to adapt [14].

Core Viewpoint - Mercedes-Benz is experiencing significant price reductions on multiple models, leading to store closures and a sharp decline in sales and profits, particularly in the Chinese market [1][16][20] Pricing and Sales - Recent price drops for models like the A-Class and C-Class have seen discounts of up to 50%, with the A-Class being offered at a low of 125,600 yuan compared to its original price of 251,300-275,700 yuan [1][3] - The EQA and EQB electric models also saw similar price cuts, with the EQA's price dropping to 161,000 yuan from a manufacturer suggested price of 322,000 yuan [4] Store Closures - Several Mercedes-Benz dealerships in cities such as Tangshan, Dongying, and Luoyang have closed, attributed to business adjustments and authorization terminations [5][6][10] - Customers are facing difficulties in accessing services and warranties due to these closures, leading to concerns about their rights and service continuity [6][8] Financial Performance - Mercedes-Benz reported a revenue decline of 8.6% year-on-year for the first half of 2025, with net profit dropping by 55.8%, and a staggering 68.7% decline in the second quarter [17] - Global sales fell to 1.0763 million vehicles, a decrease of 8%, with electric vehicle sales down 14% [17][19] Regional Performance - In the Chinese market, which is the largest single market for Mercedes-Benz, sales fell by 14% to 293,200 vehicles, with a 19% drop in the second quarter [19] - The overall trend shows a significant decline in sales across various regions, including Europe and North America, with the Asian market experiencing a 16% drop [18] Market Challenges - The decline in sales is attributed to Mercedes-Benz's slow transition to electric vehicles and a lack of competitiveness in smart technology compared to domestic brands [20] - The company is reportedly expanding its R&D team in China to enhance its software and smart cockpit capabilities, indicating a response to the competitive pressure [12]

01 平民豪车，命运反转 7月21日，行业媒体传来消息，奔驰将延长当前A-Class两厢车的生产周期，至少持续到2028年。 这些年，奔驰A级面向不同市场需求，提供了两厢版、三厢版和中国特供长轴版车型。目前国内在售的有进口两厢版（A35和A45）和国产长轴版车型 （1.3T的A180L和A200L）。 而国外，早在2022年，由于产品竞争力不足以及美国消费者对"豪华紧凑型车"概念接受度较低等原因，奔驰A级就已退出美国市场，仅在欧洲和亚洲维持 销售。今年3月，有媒体报道，奔驰高管确认了于2018年在全球推出、并于2023年改款的第四代A级掀背车（即两厢车）和三厢车将停产。 可没想到短短几个月后，这款历经四次迭代，累计销量超过百万的"平民豪车"迎来了命运反转。 据Autocar报道，奔驰A级的三厢版车型已于今年早些时候停产，而两厢掀背版预计将继续生产。 欧7排放法规（即欧盟制定的最新汽车排放标准）将在2026年底实施，目前尚不清楚奔驰A级现有的发动机能否通过优化以满足更严苛的新标准。 不过，有行业消息称，高性能AMG系列的A35和A45车型将会停售，因其搭载的代号为M139的2.0T四缸涡轮增压发动机无法满足欧7 ...

Core Viewpoint - Mercedes-Benz has decided to extend the production of the A-Class until 2028, contrary to previous plans to discontinue it in 2026, due to sustained demand in the European market for this entry-level fuel vehicle [4][12][20]. Group 1: Production Decisions - The decision to extend the A-Class production was confirmed by production chief Jörg Burzer, who stated that this will be the "last round of production" for the A-Class [5][19]. - The A-Class was initially set to be the last generation of its series, with plans to shift focus to new models based on the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform [10][11]. - The production of the A-Class may be transferred to the Kecskemet plant in Hungary to free up capacity at the Rastatt plant for the new MMA models [18] Group 2: Market Demand and Strategy - Despite a decline in overall compact car sales, the A-Class has shown relatively strong performance in the European market, with sales of 27,772 units in the first five months of the year, although this is down from 32,711 units in the same period last year [16]. - Mercedes-Benz plans to reduce its compact car lineup from seven to four models, indicating a strategic shift to focus on more attractive models for global markets [10][21]. - The extension of the A-Class production is seen as a response to the strong customer base in Europe, where the A-Class has been one of the best-selling compact cars [20][22]. Group 3: Future Outlook - The new CLA will take over the entry-level role in the Mercedes lineup after the A-Class is phased out, with production of the next-generation CLA set to begin in 2026 [11][21]. - The additional two years of A-Class production serve as a farewell to European customers who prefer fuel vehicles, while also providing a transition period before the new electric models are introduced [22][23].

电动车冲击传统燃油车！奔驰A级确认停产，CTO： 掀背车在中国和美国市场表现不佳【附新能源汽车行 业现状分析】 （图片来源：摄图网） 近日，据媒体报道，梅赛德斯-奔驰为了精简全球产品线，已确认将停产A级车型。现款A级掀背车将成为该 系列的最后一款车型，后续不再推出换代车型。 奔驰首席技术官Markus Schafer表示，品牌需要更具全球吸引力的车型。尽管掀背车在欧洲市场颇受欢迎， 但在中国和美国这两大重要市场，其表现却并不佳。 为此，奔驰决定对紧凑型车型系列进行精简，从原本的7款车型减少至4款，即CLA轿车、CLA猎装车、 GLA和GLB SUV。随着A级的停产，CLA将成为奔驰最便宜的入门车型。 奔驰A级是奔驰旗下的紧凑型车，自1997年推出以来，已历经四代。最新一代车型于2018年发布，并在2023 年进行了更新。作为品牌的入门级车型，具有较高的性价。其中2024 款二次改款 A 180 L售价为25.13 万。 事实上，奔驰A级的停产早有"苗头"。早在2022年，它就已经先在美国市场"退场"。尽管在欧洲和亚洲部分 市场还坚守着，但销量却一直不容乐观。2023年3月至2024年2月期间，奔驰A级的月销量 ...

奔驰A级长轴距版 奔驰 2024年，奔驰全球共计销售240万辆汽车，同比下降4%，电动车销量更是下降了22%。对此，奔驰计划 降本增效，专注于更具广泛吸引力的车型。薛夫铭表示，奔驰需要的是在全球各个市场都受欢迎的车 型，尤其是中国和美国等主要市场，"我知道掀背车在欧洲很受欢迎，但它已不再是奔驰计划的一部 分，我们不得不做出艰难抉择。" 推出不到30年，奔驰A级将停产 【文/观察者网 潘昱辰 编辑/高莘】日前，奔驰负责开发和采购的首席技术官（CTO）薛夫铭（Markus Schafer）在接受意大利汽车媒体Quattrurote采访时确认，于2018年在全球推出、并于2023年改款的第四 代A级掀背车将停产。此后，A级将不再推出新款。 除奔驰A级外，AMG品牌的A35、A45的车型也可 能停产。 奔驰A级的停产是传统车企加速转型的一个缩影。此前不久，包括福特福克斯、马自达6等经典车型也 因利润率不足而宣告停产。 财报数据显示，2024年，奔驰营业额为1456亿欧元（约合人民币1.1万亿元），同比下降4.5%；息税前 利润（EBIT）为136亿欧元（约合人民币1030.9亿元），同比下降31%。 对此，奔驰开始实 ...