Mercedes-Benz

Audi has unveiled its full-size, three-row Q9 SUV, starting at $89,095, as part of a product push to reverse declining U.S. sales. The Q9, along with the high-performance SQ9 variant, joins the compact Q3 and midsize Q7 SUVs announced earlier in 2026. The vehicle is designed specifically for the American market, featuring V6 and V8 engines, large cupholders, and advanced technology like matrix adaptive beam headlights and a ChatGPT-powered voice assistant. Audi's U.S. sales have dropped 17% through June 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, attributed to tariffs and the end of federal EV incentives. Analysts suggest the new SUVs could provide a boost, but Audi still faces structural disadvantages, including a lack of U.S. manufacturing, compared to rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 01:56 AM UTC

Mercedes-Benz is celebrating its 140th anniversary with a transcontinental tour called '140 Years, 140 Places', covering 140 locations across 23 countries and five continents. Three S-Class sedans named after automotive pioneers Carl Benz, Bertha Benz, and Gottlieb Daimler departed from Stuttgart and have traveled over 40,000 kilometers. The convoy reached Bengaluru, India, where two of the cars visited Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI) campuses at Brigade Tech Gardens and Embassy Crest. MBRDI, the company's largest R&D center outside Germany, is also celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The Bengaluru stop featured celebrations at MBRDI campuses, and the convoy will continue its global route before returning to Stuttgart in October 2026.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 07:28 PM UTC

Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kaellenius has pledged to shield the company's U.S. business from a potential sales ban, following U.S. Senate legislation targeting Chinese automakers. The bill, approved by the Senate Commerce Committee, could bar Mercedes from selling vehicles in the U.S. because its top two shareholders—Chinese carmaker BAIC Group and Geely's billionaire founder Li Shufu—hold nearly 20% of its listed shares. Kaellenius stated the company is monitoring the debate and is 'deeply involved' in talks with relevant parties. Facing plunging sales in China, Mercedes is expanding U.S. production, having pledged over $7 billion in investments, including $4 billion through 2030 to boost SUV production in Alabama. The CEO also indicated the company could set up engine production in the U.S. depending on trade pact negotiations. U.S. sales grew 15% in the first half of 2026, helping offset losses in China.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 01:18 PM UTC

Mercedes-Benz reported a 13.5% increase in quarterly profit, defying weak car sales and a decline in the crucial Chinese market. Auto expert Ferdinand Dudenhöffer attributed the result to cost-cutting measures, stating the company 'saved their way to profit.' The report, published by Die Welt on July 28, 2026, highlights the automaker's ability to maintain profitability through efficiency gains amid challenging market conditions, particularly in China where demand has softened. The profit rise contrasts with broader industry headwinds, suggesting strategic financial management rather than revenue growth drove the improvement.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 12:14 PM UTC

This is the transcript of Mercedes-Benz Group AG's Q2 2026 earnings conference call, held on July 28, 2026. The call was hosted by Christina Schenck (VP, Head of Investor Relations & Treasury), along with CEO Ola Kallenius and CFO Harald Wilhelm. The transcript includes opening remarks, a safe harbor statement regarding forward-looking risks, and the beginning of a Q&A session with analysts from major financial institutions such as Jefferies, Deutsche Bank, JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, UBS, Bernstein, HSBC, BofA Securities, and Barclays. The call covers the company's financial performance for the second quarter of 2026, with management discussing results and future outlook. The full transcript is incomplete in the provided text, cutting off after the welcome remarks.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 12:08 PM UTC

Mercedes-Benz Group has cut its revenue outlook as the luxury car market in China continues to slump. The average selling price of Mercedes vehicles fell to 64,700 euros from 67,700 euros a year earlier. Sales in China, the world's largest car market, plunged 30% during the second quarter, significantly outpacing the overall market decline. The announcement was made on July 28, 2026, and reported by The Business Times Singapore. The company is based in Stuttgart, Germany, and is facing headwinds from weakening demand in the Chinese luxury segment.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 06:58 AM UTC

German luxury carmaker Porsche announced plans to cut up to 9,000 jobs by 2035 as part of a cost-cutting "future package" amid declining sales in China and a stalled electric vehicle strategy. The Volkswagen subsidiary reached a labour pact extending job security until 2035 while avoiding compulsory redundancies. Critics, including the Left Party and environmental group BUND, argue shareholder profit expectations should be reduced before jobs are sacrificed. The cuts include 5,000 new reductions on top of previously announced 3,900, plus 500 from subsidiary closures.

9 reports · 4 sources · Updated Jul 28, 11:02 AM UTC

Factorial Energy Inc. (NASDAQ:FAC) has received its first commercial order for battery cells in the aerospace industry, marking a milestone as it expands solid-state battery technology beyond automotive. The order, from an unnamed U.S. drone manufacturer, follows successful integration and flight testing of lithium-metal battery cells in an unmanned aircraft. Drone trials demonstrated a flight range improvement of over 30% compared to existing technology. CEO Siyu Huang noted the project went from design to purchase order in six months. The company expects additional aerospace opportunities and continues automotive work with Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis. Factorial's investors include major automakers and IQT, a U.S. national security-affiliated investor.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 02:08 PM UTC

The U.S. Senate Commerce Committee advanced bipartisan legislation, the Motor Vehicle Modernization Act of 2026, aimed at blocking Chinese-linked automakers and vehicle technology from the U.S. market over national security concerns. Senator Ted Cruz warned that the bill's 15% Chinese ownership threshold could inadvertently bar Mercedes-Benz, whose two largest individual shareholders—Chinese state-owned BAIC (9.98%) and Geely founder Li Shufu (9.69%)—collectively own nearly 20% of the company. Senator Bernie Moreno stated Mercedes would have until 2030 to comply or could seek a waiver. Cruz accused General Motors of supporting the provision to weaken Mercedes-Benz and boost Cadillac. Mercedes-Benz employs over 10,000 people in the U.S. and operates assembly plants in Alabama and South Carolina.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 05:52 PM UTC

This analysis from Die Welt argues that the German automotive industry, which has built globally successful brands through engineering genius and intuition for decades, now faces a significant challenge from China's rapidly advancing automotive sector. The article highlights a competitive factor often underestimated: beauty or design aesthetics. It suggests that while German cars have long been recognizable and iconic from a distance (exemplified by the 1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class), Chinese manufacturers have caught up enormously in technology and are now competing on design. The piece implies that maintaining a distinct visual identity and emotional appeal is crucial for German automakers to retain their market position against increasingly sophisticated Chinese competitors.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 12:26 PM UTC

General Motors is increasingly focusing on software and subscription services as a high-margin revenue stream, highlighted by strong growth in OnStar and Super Cruise. OnStar generated approximately $800 million in Q2 2024, up over 20% year-over-year, with GM expecting to add 1 million subscribers this year. Super Cruise, GM's hands-free driving system, saw revenue rise 70% and is on track to exceed 850,000 subscribers by year-end. Retention after the free three-year trial is 30-40%. GM's software business retains roughly 70 cents per dollar, far exceeding typical auto margins. The push comes as EVs reduce traditional maintenance revenue. Competitors like Ford, Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW are also expanding subscription offerings. Wall Street reacted positively, with GM stock rising 8.8% after the earnings call.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 09:03 AM UTC

Zalando, Europe's leading fashion and lifestyle technology platform, has become a strategic investor in Sereact, a provider of physical AI for warehouse robotics and manufacturing. The investment is part of Sereact's ongoing Series B round, bringing the total to $116 million. Sereact's Cortex technology is a universal AI operating system that runs across various hardware forms, including single-arm picking cells, dual-arm return stations, and humanoid robots. The funding will be used to scale Cortex 2.0, which can anticipate physical outcomes and plan movements before robots act. Over 200 Cortex systems are already live across Europe, with customers including Daimler Truck, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW. Sereact, founded in 2021 in Germany, has now raised over $145 million to date. The investment underscores Zalando's commitment to supporting European tech companies and modernizing e-commerce logistics.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:00 PM UTC

The article reports that Mercedes-Benz and BMW are facing crises similar to Volkswagen, including trade conflicts, Chinese competition, and a missed powertrain transition. Mercedes-Benz is investing 1 billion euros to expand its plant in Kecskemét, Hungary, making it one of its largest global production sites, while demanding German employees work five more hours per week for the same pay. BMW also lowered its profit margin forecast due to a 4.2% drop in sales, driven by a slump in China. Union representatives criticize the strategy of relocating production to Eastern Europe at the expense of German jobs and call for active industrial policy, including better charging infrastructure and local content regulations for foreign competitors.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 07:44 AM UTC

The article reports that Mercedes-Benz and BMW, like Volkswagen, are facing a severe crisis due to trade conflicts, Chinese competition, and a missed electric vehicle transition. Mercedes-Benz is investing 1 billion euros to expand its plant in Kecskemét, Hungary, making it one of its largest global sites, while demanding German employees work five more hours per week for the same pay. BMW has also lowered its profit margin forecast. The IG Metall union criticizes the strategy as unsustainable, warning that unpaid extra hours could lead to unemployment, and calls for active industrial policy including better charging infrastructure and battery cell factories in Germany.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 07:44 AM UTC

Two independent studies have solved a key mystery behind solid-state battery failures, identifying the physical processes causing internal short circuits. German researchers at the Max Planck Institute found that lithium deposits generate enormous internal pressure during charging, cracking the solid electrolyte. A separate MIT-led team reported that tiny electrical imbalances inside the electrolyte create conditions for unwanted lithium structures to grow. These findings transform a major scientific unknown into a defined engineering problem. Automakers and battery manufacturers, including Honda, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and QuantumScape, have invested billions in solid-state battery development despite previous failures. Honda has built a $280 million demonstration production line in Japan, while Mercedes-Benz tested a solid-state battery EQS that traveled 1,205 km on a single charge. The technology promises higher energy density, faster charging, improved safety, and longer driving ranges for EVs, aviation, defense, and grid storage.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 11:00 PM UTC

Hesai Group (NASDAQ:HSAI) shareholders approved an 8-for-1 stock split at the annual general meeting on June 26, 2026, effective July 10. The company reported strong Q1 2026 results with EPS of 4c (up from 1c) and revenue of $98.7M (up from $72.4M). Total lidar shipments surged 140.9% to 471,723 units. CEO Yifan Li highlighted the strategic shift from spatial perception to spatial intelligence and confirmed Hesai as a strategic lidar partner for Mercedes-Benz L3 autonomous vehicles. Citi maintained a Buy rating but lowered its price target to $28.60 from $33, citing conservative forecasts and weaker EV sector shipment trends.

1 reports · 1 sources

Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius indicated the company’s willingness to enter arms production if economically viable, aiming to support Europe’s strengthening defense capabilities amid global unpredictability. While civilian vehicles remain the core business, this potential shift addresses financial pressures from Chinese competition and weak demand. The move mirrors broader trends among German automakers like Volkswagen exploring defense contracts. Reports suggest ongoing negotiations with defense group KNDS regarding the Ludwigsfelde plant, highlighting a strategic industrial adaptation to rising military spending and geopolitical tensions in the region.

8 reports · 7 sources · Updated May 16, 01:53 PM UTC

BMW has launched a new preferred pricing program offering a 20% discount on electric vehicle charging sessions at IONNA stations across the United States. This promotion is available to BMW and MINI drivers from May 15, 2026, through September 30, 2026. To qualify, users must utilize the Plug & Charge feature or the My BMW App with a linked payment method; the discount is automatically applied and does not require subscriptions or credit card swipes at the stall. IONNA, a joint venture involving major automakers like BMW, GM, Honda, and Toyota, currently operates over 1,000 charging bays with plans for significant expansion. The network supports both NACS and CCS connectors, with rates typically at $0.39/kWh or less. This initiative coincides with rising national gas prices averaging over $4.50 per gallon and BMW's preparation for the upcoming 2027 iX3 Neue Klasse model. The move aims to enhance the appeal of electric vehicle ownership by reducing operational costs and leveraging reliable high-speed charging infrastructure.

1 reports · 1 sources

Chinese automakers significantly expanded their presence in the South African passenger car market in 2025, increasing their share to 16.8% from 11.2% the previous year. According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa), this growth is driven by competitively priced, technology-rich SUVs and extended warranties offered by brands like BYD, Chery, and GWM. The industry describes this shift as a structural reset rather than a temporary surge, noting that consumers are increasingly prioritizing affordability over traditional brand prestige due to tighter household budgets. While Toyota remains the market leader with a 24.8% share, the number of Chinese brands operating in the country rose to 15. Conversely, the report highlights a sharp decline in automotive exports to the USMCA region, which dropped by 26.1% to 10,042 units. This decrease is attributed to steep U.S. import tariffs and strategic decisions by major producers, particularly affecting Mercedes-Benz, which relies heavily on the U.S. market. Meanwhile, India remains the top source of imported light vehicles, though China’s share of imports also increased.

1 reports · 1 sources

The European Green Deal, launched in 2019 with the ambition of making Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050, is facing significant challenges and criticism. Initially hailed as a transformative initiative, the policy is now associated with soaring energy costs, weakened industrial competitiveness, and growing political division within the EU. Electricity prices in Europe have risen to two or three times those in the United States and China, driven by taxes and restrictive energy policies such as nuclear phase-outs and reliance on intermittent renewables. These factors have accelerated deindustrialization, forcing companies to scale back or relocate. The automotive sector exemplifies these pressures, struggling with the mandated shift to electric vehicles by 2035 despite technological and market hurdles. Critics argue that the Deal’s binding emissions targets constrain energy supply and harm economic stability, raising serious doubts about its long-term feasibility and impact on households and businesses.

1 reports · 1 sources

Mercedes-Benz is commemorating its 140th anniversary with a global initiative titled '140 Years. 140 Places,' designed to showcase the automaker's rich history and tradition to fans worldwide. The tour features significant locations tied to the brand's legacy, including a planned but ultimately canceled project in the Atacama Desert due to time constraints. Matthias Wenzel, involved in the tour, highlighted the ambition to bring the Mercedes star to iconic sites globally. The article also features insights from Marcus Breitschwerdt, head of the manufacturer's classic department, who discussed the importance of preserving automotive heritage. Breitschwerdt was pictured during the restoration of a 1924 Targa Florio racing car, emphasizing the technical and historical dedication behind the brand's classics. The anniversary tour is scheduled to visit Austria in the autumn, allowing local enthusiasts to engage with the company's historical milestones. This initiative underscores Mercedes-Benz's strategy to blend modern product presentations, such as the GLC launch in the Algarve, with a deep respect for its foundational history and engineering traditions.

1 reports · 1 sources

Despite repeated declarations of its demise, Germany's automotive industry is demonstrating significant resilience and innovative strength. Major manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Volkswagen are successfully reinventing themselves to compete with rivals such as Tesla and BYD. This turnaround is driven by the adoption of new zonal software architectures, which allow for rapid over-the-air updates, and a strategic shift toward electromobility. Key developments include Mercedes introducing semi-autonomous driving features in China, BMW launching its New Class series, and VW releasing the ID.Polo. Crucially, German automakers are abandoning traditional isolationism in favor of technology partnerships; Volkswagen has collaborated with Rivian and Xpeng to address software deficits, while Mercedes partners with Nvidia for autonomous driving systems. Supplier Bosch is also advancing with AI-driven software. Although the sector faces challenges like job cuts and tariff threats, these strategic adaptations and improved model performance indicate that the industry is emerging stronger from its crisis, proving its ability to adapt to modern technological demands and global competition.

1 reports · 1 sources

Accenture (NYSE: ACN) and the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) have announced a multi-year strategic partnership, designating Accenture as the Official Business and Technology Consulting Partner of the tour. Announced on May 7, 2026, this collaboration aims to modernize the WTA’s digital ecosystem by leveraging artificial intelligence and data-driven insights. A primary objective is transforming the 'WTA Player Zone,' a central digital hub for athletes, to streamline access to critical information and enhance player performance focus. This initiative reflects a broader ambition to strengthen the infrastructure of women’s tennis and support its global growth. Beyond player services, the partnership seeks to lay the foundation for future innovations in fan engagement and live event experiences. The agreement also includes joint storytelling and content development to highlight the momentum behind women’s professional sports. This deal follows other significant WTA milestones, such as a partnership with Mercedes-Benz and record prize money payouts. By integrating advanced technology into its operations, the WTA aims to unlock new value for players, fans, and commercial partners, while Accenture continues to expand its footprint in sports technology and digital transformation services.

1 reports · 1 sources

The shift toward electromobility is granting automobile designers unprecedented freedom, particularly regarding the rear aesthetics and functionality of vehicles. Traditionally, car design focused heavily on the front grille and face, but electric vehicles (EVs) eliminate the need for large radiator grilles, shifting attention to the rear. This article analyzes how manufacturers are leveraging this change to enhance aerodynamic efficiency, crucial for maximizing battery range. Features such as active spoilers, air blades, and specific body contours are now common, even in family cars, to reduce wind resistance and turbulence. The piece highlights examples from major brands like Porsche, Renault, and Mercedes-Benz, noting trends like continuous lighting strips and unique design elements. Furthermore, it explores the future role of vehicle lighting in communication, especially for autonomous driving. Lights may soon convey messages to pedestrians and other drivers, such as braking intensity or intent, transforming the rear of the car into an interactive interface. This evolution marks a significant departure from traditional static designs, blending aesthetic chic with functional necessity in the modern automotive landscape.

1 reports · 1 sources

Thyssenkrupp Springs & Stabilizers, a division of the German conglomerate thyssenkrupp, is investing 50 million reais to expand its unique manufacturing plant in São Paulo, Brazil. This facility holds a distinct status within the global group as the only site dedicated exclusively to producing suspension components, specifically spring beams, for heavy commercial vehicles. Currently, the plant contributes 28% of the division's global revenue and employs 800 people locally. The investment plan includes installing two new production lines for lighter, high-performance parabolic spring bundles, aiming to increase manufacturing capacity by 35% by 2027. While currently exporting only 5% of its production, primarily to the United States, the company aims to reverse trade flows by targeting European automakers, with a goal of reaching 30% export rates. This strategic move leverages the plant's specialized technology to replace imports from Europe. The expansion coincides with the factory's 60th anniversary in 2027, marking a significant milestone for the operation that began in 1967 under Hoesch before becoming part of thyssenkrupp.

1 reports · 1 sources

Michael Schiebe, head of Mercedes-AMG, addresses the brand's strategic adjustments following customer backlash over the four-cylinder hybrid C63 AMG. Acknowledging that enthusiasts 'simply counted the cylinders,' Schiebe confirms a return to six-cylinder engines in models like the GLC and C-Class to better align with consumer expectations. The interview also explores the transition to all-electric performance vehicles via the upcoming AMG.EA platform. To preserve the brand's emotional identity, Mercedes is developing advanced digital simulations, including a 'V8 mode' that replicates engine vibrations and gear shifts, aiming to recreate the traditional combustion experience. Schiebe emphasizes that continuous performance and thermal management, rather than just acceleration, will define future electric AMGs. Additionally, he reaffirms the commitment to producing the G-Class in Graz, Austria, highlighting its iconic status and new market opportunities driven by electric vehicle tax incentives in regions like Turkey. The discussion underscores the balance between technological innovation and preserving the heritage of high-performance automotive engineering amidst geopolitical and market challenges.

1 reports · 1 sources

The German automotive industry is currently facing a severe crisis, prompting major manufacturers to restructure their operations significantly. Mercedes-Benz has announced the gradual closure of its branches in Berlin as part of a strategic shift towards a leaner and more efficient business model. According to automotive expert Ferdinand Dudenhöffer, this move reflects a broader industry trend where traditional manufacturer-owned branches are being phased out in favor of large independent trading groups. This transition aims to reduce overhead costs and adapt to changing market dynamics, but it also highlights the deep structural challenges confronting Germany's iconic auto sector. The closures signify a pivotal moment for Mercedes, indicating that even established luxury brands are not immune to the economic pressures reshaping the landscape. As the company streamlines its direct retail presence, the reliance on third-party dealerships is expected to increase, fundamentally altering how vehicles are sold and serviced in the region. This development underscores the urgency for adaptation within one of Germany's most critical industrial sectors.

1 reports · 1 sources

Valens Semiconductor Ltd. reported first-quarter 2026 revenue of $16.9 million, exceeding the top end of its guidance, driven by strong adoption of high-resolution video chips in the audio-video segment. The VS3000 chip continues to anchor growth, with recent integrations into premium collaboration products by manufacturers like Extron. Automotive demand remains steady, supported by Mercedes-Benz and the MIPI A-PHY compliant VA7000 chipset. Gross margins expanded to 62.2% due to a favorable product mix in the Cross-Industry Business (CIB) segment. Management demonstrated a three-company interoperable SerDes connectivity solution, validating its open standards strategy. Despite slight inventory increases to $10.9 million, the company maintains a debt-free balance sheet with $86.1 million in cash. Full-year 2026 revenue guidance remains unchanged at $75 million to $77 million, with significant growth expected in the second half due to scheduled customer product launches. However, the company announced that CFO Guy Nathanzon will depart on July 13, 2026, initiating a search for his successor. Valens is also positioning its connectivity standards for future robotics applications through participation in MIPI's physical AI initiatives.

1 reports · 1 sources

Mercedes-Benz has announced a strategic partnership with German low-code automation firm n8n to implement artificial intelligence-powered workflow automation across its global operations. This initiative aims to empower employees to build and deploy AI-driven workflows within daily processes, covering key business functions such as research and development, production, sales, human resources, and IT. The deployment utilizes a self-hosted, cloud-agnostic architecture to ensure data sovereignty and maintain control over sensitive information. To foster internal adoption, the automaker organized a hackathon involving over 1,500 employees, resulting in practical use cases now being integrated into the global rollout. Mercedes-Benz has structured its AI strategy into three tiers: Takers, Makers, and Builders, designed to transition staff from passive users to active creators of automated solutions. According to CIO Katrin Lehmann, this collaboration enables teams to convert ideas into measurable impacts efficiently. The move supports European digital sovereignty and enhances operational speed, transparency, and scalability. n8n serves as an orchestration layer connecting existing systems with emerging AI agent frameworks, addressing the challenge of scaling AI from pilot projects to full production while keeping data control in-house.

1 reports · 1 sources

Transport Canada has announced a safety recall affecting 964 Mercedes-Benz vehicles due to a software malfunction that poses potential risks to drivers. The issue involves the instrument cluster display potentially going blank while the vehicle is in motion. This failure prevents drivers from accessing critical information, including the speedometer, fuel gauge, warning lights, and other malfunction indicators. The recall specifically targets model years 2024, 2025, and 2026 of the C Class, CLE Class, E Class, and GLC Class vehicles. Mercedes-Benz has assigned manufacturer recall number 5496804 to this incident. To resolve the issue, the automaker will notify affected owners via mail and instruct them to visit authorized dealerships for a software update of the infotainment control unit. Fortunately, no injuries or accidents related to this specific defect have been reported to date. This recall highlights ongoing challenges automotive manufacturers face with complex software systems in modern vehicles. Consumers owning the specified models are urged to check their vehicle identification numbers against the recall list and schedule necessary repairs promptly to ensure safe driving conditions and compliance with Canadian safety standards.

1 reports · 1 sources