Mercedes-Benz sees FY25 cars, vans sales ‘slightly below’ prior-year level

Sees FY25 return on sales for cars up 6%-8%, vans up 10%-12%, and mobility up 8%-9% compared to last year. Sees R&D expenditure in cars at prior-year level and for vans significantly above prior-year level. The company said, “The premises regarding the overall economic conditions and the development of the automotive markets continue to be characterized by exceptional uncertainty. In addition to unexpected macroeconomic developments, geopolitical and trade policy events in particular can create uncertainty and burdens for the global economy and the business development of the Mercedes-Benz (MBGYY) Group. These include the Middle East conflict, the Russia-Ukraine war and possible other regional crises. In addition, the ongoing tensions between the United States and China, a possible deterioration in relations between the EU and China and the future development of the relationship between the EU and the United States pose uncertainties. Trade conflicts and in particular additional tariffs and sanctions could significantly affect global trade flows and corporate activities. Further disruptions to supply chains and, in particular, availability bottlenecks for critical components remain significant risk factors. Sharply rising energy and raw material prices, higher than expected inflation rates and interest rates, possible distortions in the financial markets and a pronounced weakening of economic activity can also have an impact on the development of the global economy and the automotive markets.”