Mercedes-Benz has clarified its stance on all-electric sales in Europe by 2030, with Chief Executive Ola Kaellenius stating that while the company will have its line-up ready, it does not expect all sales to be electric by that time. Kaellenius emphasized that the ultimate decision lies with customers and highlighted the need for adequate infrastructure to support the shift towards electric vehicles. Despite the significant growth of the European EV market in recent years, Kaellenius believes it will not be fully prepared for all-electric sales by 2030. He noted that Mercedes-Benz will be prepared for the transition but also retains the flexibility to produce both electric and combustion-engine vehicles on the same production line. Kaellenius’ comments align with a trend among major carmakers, who are showing caution in scaling up EV production and uptake due to regulatory targets and potential delays. While the EU has set a review date in 2026 for the 2035 ban on fossil fuel-emitting cars, BMW and Volkswagen CEOs have expressed differing perspectives on readiness for the ban. In Europe, EV sales have grown dramatically, comprising approximately 13% of all car sales and increasing by nearly 55% in the first seven months of 2023. However, industry executives are highlighting various challenges hindering the production and sale of EVs, such as high electricity costs and a lack of charging infrastructure. In China, Kaellenius expects the transition to EVs in the premium segment to take many years due to the absence of government support. He remains confident in Mercedes-Benz’s strategy for the country, unaffected by the current economic slowdown.
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