Mercedes-Benz Axing Several Models
Mercedes-Benz admits its vehicle production strategy may have been too aggressive in recent years.
If you’re having a hard time keeping up with all things Mercedes, you’re not alone. As of right now, the Mercedes-Benz USA website offers 27 different vehicle models to choose from, with several sub-models of each. That doesn’t include AMG, Maybach, or other models only sold internationally. What are we trying to say? That’s a heck of a lot of options.
Despite a solid economy and strong financing options, the majority of consumers are still focused on the core models that have seemingly always been offered. While sales of specialty models, like convertibles and coupes, aren’t necessarily stagnant, the results haven’t been what the Germans desired.
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In an interview with several journalists at the Geneva Motor Show, Dr. Dieter Zetsche agreed with the abundance of models, and even confirmed the axing of several.
“The specialty cars, these coupes and convertibles, were always niche cars. The expansion into China and other emerging markets [has given] huge opportunities for sedans, but they did not take up these specialty cars. Which makes the business case for these vehicles less easy,” said the Mercedes-Benz boss.
The other German powerhouse, BMW, made similar remarks about their ever-growing lineup, which now features up to eight sub-models per “class” of vehicle.