Mercedes-Benz is facing pressure from U.S. lawmakers regarding its Chinese investors, specifically BAIC Group and Geely's Li Shufu, who collectively own nearly 20% of the company. The U.S. Senate Commerce Committee recently approved legislation that could impose stricter bans on Chinese automakers, potentially affecting Mercedes' ability to operate in the U.S. market.
CEO Ola Kaellenius emphasized the company's commitment to adapting to any regulatory changes to safeguard its U.S. business. He noted that Mercedes is closely monitoring the situation and is actively engaging with relevant stakeholders.
Despite challenges in China, where sales have dropped due to competition in the electric vehicle sector, Mercedes is investing over $7 billion in its U.S. operations, including $4 billion earmarked for increasing SUV production at its Alabama plant. The company reported a 15% increase in U.S. sales in the first half of the year, which has helped mitigate losses from the Chinese market.
Analysts suggest that local manufacturing in the U.S. is highly profitable, reinforcing the importance of Mercedes' strategic focus on this market