The CEO of the business has stated that Mercedes-Benz will still sell combustion-engine vehicles even in 2030, while also endorsing the ICE models. Though leaning towards electric vehicles, the company's strategy makes it apparent that it also wants to control the market's internal combustion engine (ICE) segment.
Mercedes-Benz has stated that it will continue to meet the demand for fuel-powered models after 2030, despite rumors circulating that internal combustion engine (ICE) car sales will soon come to an end. In collaboration with Engine Geely, the company is also creating the newest four-cylinder engine with a focus on hybrid technology to realize the plan. When it breaks through in 2026, it will have complied with the new Euro 7 emissions regulations.
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Is it related to EVs' slashing prices and weakening demands?
Mercedes predicts that the percentage of its plug-in cars will stay constant at 19–21% of total sales in 2024, having been negatively impacted by the slowing demand for electric vehicles. These drivetrains accounted for 20% of sales last year, up from 16% the year before.
On the other hand, Mercedes is going to keep releasing new electric cars, the most important of which will be the CLA EV sedan, which will be the first to ride on the Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA) electric platform in 2025. Four models that will take the place of the current compact range will be supported by this platform.
Mercedes will continue to focus on SUVs, the CLA sedan, and the Shooting Brake, leaving the A-Class and B-Class in place. Models from Mercedes are expected to have a maximum range of 750 kilometers and recharge nearly 400 kilometers in 15 minutes when connected to an appropriate charger. To lower the price of EVs, Källenius confirmed that certain upcoming electric Mercedes models would make use of less expensive lithium-iron-phosphate batteries. Mercedes will reportedly purchase LFP batteries from BYD, according to Chinese reports.
Mercedes plans to use LFP, optimize cell and module design, pressure suppliers for better prices, and other strategies to cut the cost of batteries by thirty percent "in the coming years."
Mercedes-Benz sells the EQE SUV, EQS, and EQB EVs in India. Later this year, the much-anticipated all-new E-Class sedan will be unveiled.
What was the final say of the CEO?
Ola Källenius shared some insights when he said, "We have the infrastructure and the powertrain line-up to continue producing (combustion-engined vehicles)." It appears as though we will have a completely new lineup in 2027 that will be capable of carrying us well into the 2030s. Additionally, the company adjusted its sales projection, moving from a 50% goal by 2025 to a maximum 50% goal of sales. In the latter part of the decade, it will come from plug-in hybrid or electric vehicles.
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