Operating profit of Mercedes-Benz in the first quarter of 2026 amounted to 19 billion euros (about 152 billion rubles), which is 17% less than a year earlier, IT Home reports.
Despite the sharp drop, the result still exceeded the expectations of analysts, who had predicted 16 billion euros. Mercedes-Benz shares rose 2.2% in pre-market trading.
The main pain point for the German auto giant is China. Mercedes-Benz sales in the world’s largest auto market fell 27% in the first quarter, with the decline accelerating. Against the backdrop of tariff wars, fierce local competition (especially from Chinese premium electric vehicles) and a slowdown in the transition to green technologies, all German automakers are under serious pressure.
The margin of the main Mercedes-Benz division (passenger cars) fell from 7.3% a year earlier to 4.1%, which, however, remains within the annual forecast (3-5%). Chief Financial Officer Harald Wilhelm said the company still expects a significant increase in profit in 2026, compared with 58 billion euros received in 2025.
To turn the situation around, Mercedes-Benz is launching a “new offensive”: 40 new models are planned to be released between 2025 and 2027. These include the entry-level all-electric CLA sedan and the updated S-Class family.
In addition, the concern will continue its strict policy of reducing costs and jobs. The goal of the strategy is not only to restore its position in China, but also to bring margins to 8-10% in the medium term.
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