On the 27th of July, Mercedes-Benz Group released their second-quarter results for 2022. Within Mercedes-Benz Vans, over 100,000 vehicles were sold worldwide, exceeding prior-year levels by around 1700 vehicles. Due to sustained demand for premium vans, the adjusted return on sales at Mercedes-Benz Vans was 10.1%. The results are particularly remarkable, as 2022 brought with it many obstacles, including various COVID restrictions, the ongoing semiconductor supply-chain bottlenecks and global turbulences.
In the local market, Mercedes-Benz Vans has forecasted record V-Class sales in 2022, as well as strong projected sales for the Vito and Sprinter ranges.
Nadia Trimmel, the President of Mercedes-Benz Vans SA, praised both her international colleagues and her South African team for the results. “The first half of 2022 is behind us and, looking at what we have accomplished, I am exceptionally proud of how the Mercedes-Benz Vans team has persevered. We have demonstrated outstanding resilience in the wake of many challenges and uncertainties. I look forward to a successful remainder of 2022.”
A noteworthy achievement for Mercedes-Benz Vans global this quarter was a significant increase in demand for electric vehicles, particularly in the commercial sector. Driven by the eSprinter and eVito, customer demand for electric vans rose by over 80%, to 3500 units.
When asked about the launch of an electric van in South Africa, Marinus Venter, the Head of Product and Marketing for Mercedes-Benz Vans SA says, “It is our unwavering goal to deliver the most desirable all-electric vehicles to our customers, worldwide. Although we have some challenges in South Africa, the South African market remains an integral part of this plan.”
Electric vans are yet to make their debut in the South African market but the wheels are turning. Venter concludes, saying, “Our goal in the coming years is to completely transform the South African van industry as we know it, by providing exceptional electro-mobility solutions in both the private and commercial sectors.”
Ends.
