According to an official statement issued by Mercedes-Benz on Thursday, the brand's core automotive business had a total global sales of 419,400 vehicles in the first quarter, representing a 6% decrease compared to the same period last year.
This data reflects significant differences across various regional markets. Specifically, the performance in the U.S. and European markets was quite good, with sales growing by 20% and 7% respectively. Unfortunately, the strong momentum in the U.S. and Europe failed to offset a staggering 27% drop in sales in the Chinese market.
The ongoing weakness in the Chinese market poses considerable challenges for this German luxury car manufacturer. In the current high-end automotive sector, Mercedes-Benz is embroiled in an exceptionally fierce price war with its competitors, including BMW, against local Chinese brands. To regain market share, Mercedes is working hard on a comprehensive upgrade and adjustment of its model lineup, a process that places enormous pressure on the company. At the same time, the official forecast indicates that brand sales will face a decline in early 2026.
This data reflects significant differences across various regional markets. Specifically, the performance in the U.S. and European markets was quite good, with sales growing by 20% and 7% respectively. Unfortunately, the strong momentum in the U.S. and Europe failed to offset a staggering 27% drop in sales in the Chinese market.
The ongoing weakness in the Chinese market poses considerable challenges for this German luxury car manufacturer. In the current high-end automotive sector, Mercedes-Benz is embroiled in an exceptionally fierce price war with its competitors, including BMW, against local Chinese brands. To regain market share, Mercedes is working hard on a comprehensive upgrade and adjustment of its model lineup, a process that places enormous pressure on the company. At the same time, the official forecast indicates that brand sales will face a decline in early 2026.