Mercedes-Benz’s latest sales report is more evidence that the auto industry is rapidly transitioning to a greener future. Battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales increased significantly by 66% in the third quarter.
In the third quarter, Mercedes-Benz Cars recorded a total of 510,600 sales, down by 4% year over year. A different picture emerges, however, when we zero in on sales of electric vehicles.
Twelve percent of the company’s annual sales, or 61,600 BEVs, were sold this quarter. Without their rapid expansion, the overall sales decline would have been much more severe.
With increases of 108% and 96%, respectively, the EQA and EQB electric models are clearly in the lead. The EQS SUV saw an even more impressive 162% growth, albeit from a very low starting point.
Total sales for the period of January through September increased by 2%, amounting to 1,529,800 units. Twenty percent of Mercedes’ total sales are now hybrids and EVs, demonstrating the electric shift.
Mercedes-Benz Group AG board member Britta Seeger said that the brand’s appeal has not waned, particularly in the electric vehicle market. She alluded to the new Concept CLA Class unveiled at the IAA in Munich, suggesting a luxurious electric ride is on the horizon.
When looking at growth by region, Europe stands out with a 12% increase in Q3 sales, led by the GLC model, which saw a stunning 104% increase. With BEV sales, especially the EQA, doubling, the German market showed resilience in Q3 with an 11% increase.
Consistent growth was seen in Asia, with the G-Class and Mercedes-Maybach receiving special attention in China and setting new sales records. In the United States, sales of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) more than doubled in the third quarter, with sales of the EQE SUV and EQS SUV accounting for nearly half of all BEV sales through the end of September.
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