Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported April sales of 18, 228 vehicles, an increase of 25.1%, beginning the second quarter with a 25.5% increase on a year-to-date basis.

Continued strong demand in both the Mercedes passenger car and light-truck categories fueled the sales volume for the month. In the sedan category, the popular C-Class – the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger as well as first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – maintained its lead as the volume leader with sales of 4,624. The 9th generation E-Class continued to exhibit strong momentum with sales of 4,528 (up 152.3%) and the versatile M-Class SUV followed suit with sales of 2,269.

On a year-to-date basis, the company sold 68,794 new vehicles, an increase of 25.5% over last year.

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 7,755 vehicles in April; a 14.1 % increase compared to April 2009 sales of 6,797 vehicles. Year-to-date sales for the MBCPO program were 27,934 – a 7.6 % increase over 2009 year-to-date sales (25,959 vehicles) during the same timeframe.

Mercedes-Benz April 2010 Sales Chart

May 03, 2010

Daimler AG (stock-exchange symbol DAI) has reported first-quarter EBIT of €1,190 million, as previously disclosed on April 19, 2010 (Q1 2009: minus €1,426 million). “This very good result for the first quarter shows that we did our homework in the crisis and are now firmly on track for success once again,” stated Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The very positive earnings development is reflected by ongoing upward trends in nearly all divisions. Mercedes-Benz Cars in particular posted significantly positive earnings for the first quarter of 2010, due to increased unit sales in the E-Class and S-Class segments.

The positive development of EBIT led to net profit for the Group of €612 million, representing a considerable improvement over the prior-year result (Q1 2009: net loss of €1,286 million). Earnings per share amounted to €0.65 (Q1 2009: loss per share of €1.40).

Total unit sales up by 21% in the first quarter

In the first quarter of 2010, Daimler sold 402,700 cars and commercial vehicles worldwide, which was 21% more than in the same period of last year.

The Daimler Group’s first-quarter revenue increased significantly from €18.7 billion to €21.2 billion; adjusted for exchange-rate effects, revenue grew by 15%.

The free cash flow from the industrial business was positive and increased compared to the prior-year quarter from minus €1.1 billion to plus €0.3 billion.

At the end of the first quarter of 2010, Daimler employed 254,779 people worldwide (Q1 2009: 263,819). Of that total, 161,449 people were employed in Germany (Q1 2009: 164,983).

Details of the divisions in the first quarter

Mercedes-Benz Cars achieved a very positive business development in the first quarter of 2010. Due in particular to strong growth in the E-Class and S-Class segments, unit sales increased compared to the first quarter of last year by 20% to 277,100 vehicles (Q1 2009: 231,200). This year, therefore, the car division has continued its positive development of the fourth quarter of 2009. First-quarter revenue rose by 28% to €11.6 billion.

The division’s EBIT amounted to €806 million (Q1 2009: minus €1,123 million). The main factors contributing to this distinct earnings improvement were the significant increase in unit sales, especially in the full-size and luxury segments, the related improvement in the product mix and improved pricing. The division increased its unit sales above all in the United States and China. Currency translation had a negative impact on earnings, but was partially offset by efficiency gains and cost reductions.

Daimler Trucks sold 70,600 vehicles in the first quarter of 2010 (Q1 2009: 65,400). Lower unit sales in Germany, the Middle East and Japan were more than offset by higher volumes in Latin America (+79%) and Southeast Asia (+48%). Revenue of €4.9 billion was close to the level of the prior-year period.

The division’s EBIT of €130 million was positive again (Q1 2009: minus €142 million). This earnings improvement is primarily due to the good business development in Latin America. Other positive effects resulted from the measures taken to reduce costs, especially from the repositioning of the subsidiaries Daimler Trucks North America and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation. Implementing these programs impacted EBIT by minus €17 million in the first quarter of this year (Q1 2009: minus €45 million).

Mercedes-Benz Vans increased its unit sales to 46,700 vehicles following a slight market recovery (Q1 2009: 28,800). Revenue of €1.7 billion was also higher than in the prior-year quarter (€1.3 billion).

The division achieved EBIT of €64 million (Q1 2009: minus €91 million). The positive development of earnings was mainly the result of higher unit sales compared to the prior-year quarter, especially in Western Europe. Charges from currency effects were largely offset by efficiency improvements and cost savings.

Daimler Buses significantly increased its worldwide unit sales to 8,400 buses and bus chassis (Q1 2009: 6,800). Revenue of €1,011 million was higher than in the first quarter of last year (€904 million).

The division posted EBIT of €41 million; as expected, this was lower than the high level of earnings in the prior-year quarter (€65 million). The development in earnings is primarily due to lower unit sales in Western Europe, which could not be fully offset by the positive business development in Latin America.

Daimler Financial Services’ worldwide contract volume amounted to €59.9 billion at the end of the first quarter of 2010, representing a year-on-year decrease of 3%. Compared with the end of the year 2009, contract volume increased by 3%; adjusted for exchange-rate effects, the portfolio decreased by 1% compared to year-end. New business increased compared to the first quarter of last year by 6% to

€6.2 billion; adjusted for exchange-rate effects, there was an increase of 5%.

The division achieved EBIT of €119 million (Q1 2009: minus €167 million). The improvement in earnings was mainly caused by lower provisions for risks and higher interest margins. On the other hand, charges were recognized in particular from the valuation of non-automotive assets held for sale, which are subject to leasing agreements (minus €46 million).

The reconciliation of the divisions’ EBIT to Group EBIT primarily reflects Daimler’s proportionate share in the results of its equity-method investment in EADS, as well as further gains or losses at corporate level.

In the first quarter of 2010, Daimler’s proportionate share of the net result of EADS amounted to a loss of €269 million (Q1 2009: gain of €83 million). The substantial deterioration is primarily the result of additional provisions recognized by EADS in its 2009 consolidated financial statements relating to the A400M military transport aircraft. On the other hand, the sale of the 5.3% equity interest in Tata Motors led to a pre-tax gain of €265 million, which is reflected in the reconciliation to Group EBIT.

Outlook

Based on the divisions’ planning, Daimler expects total unit sales to increase significantly in 2010 (2009: 1.6 million vehicles).

Following a distinct decline in 2009, Daimler assumes that Group revenue will increase again in 2010, but will remain significantly below the level of 2008. All automotive divisions should contribute to this year’s growth.

Daimler expects to achieve Group EBIT from the ongoing business of more than €4 billion in 2010. The key factors for this expectation are the ongoing market revival, the improving economic environment and the market success of the Group’s products.

The division’s expectations for EBIT from the ongoing business in full-year 2010 are as follows:

• Mercedes-Benz Cars anticipates EBIT of €2.5 billion to €3 billion.
• Daimler Trucks expects EBIT of €500 million to €700 million.
• Mercedes-Benz Vans assumes it will achieve EBIT in the region of €250 million.
• Daimler Buses anticipates full-year EBIT of €180 million.
• Daimler Financial Services expects to post EBIT of more than €500 million.

Mercedes-Benz Cars will profit this year from the full availability of the new E-Class models. Following the very successful market launches in 2009 of the E-Class sedan, coupe and station wagon, the new E-Class convertible was launched in the first quarter of 2010. Unit sales will also be boosted by the new super sports car Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, and as of autumn 2010 by the new generations of the

R-Class and the CL-Class. Furthermore, the division is continually launching additional fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly versions of existing models. Starting in the third quarter of 2010, new and particularly efficient six- and eight-cylinder gasoline engines will become available. The already extensive portfolio of BlueEFFICIENCY models will be expanded to 85 model versions by the end of 2010. For the smart brand, Daimler anticipates an increase in demand following the launch of a new generation of the smart fortwo in the third quarter of 2010.

On the basis of an attractive and competitive range of vehicles, Mercedes-Benz Cars assumes it will be able to strengthen its market position in 2010 even with a continuation of difficult conditions, and that it will grow at about double the rate of the global car market. From today’s perspective, global demand for cars should increase this year by between 3 and 4 percent.

The division’s EBIT should be facilitated on the one hand by higher volumes and on the other hand by improved profit margins. The projected EBIT range is primarily dependent on market developments, exchange-rate volatilities and the macroeconomic situation. The division will continue to invest substantial amounts in the development and production of new drive technologies and innovative safety systems in order to improve its competitive position in this difficult market environment.

Daimler Trucks anticipates a recovery of unit sales this year, starting from the low level of 2009. The division expects growth impetus initially from some of the Latin American markets and – starting from a very low level – also from the NAFTA region. In Europe, however, a slight revival of demand is anticipated in the second half of 2010 at the earliest.

Against the backdrop of rising customer demand in the van sector and the stabilizing market situation, Mercedes-Benz Vans expects a significant increase in unit sales compared to the prior year.

Daimler Buses assumes that it will increase its unit sales in 2010, mainly due to strong demand in Latin American markets.

Daimler Financial Services anticipates stable development of its worldwide contract volume in the automotive business. The division assumes that credit-risk costs will decrease in full-year 2010 and that further efficiency improvements will be achieved.

As a result of the upturn in demand, Daimler assumes that the size of its worldwide workforce will remain constant or increase slightly this year compared to the end of 2009.

Mercedes-Benz continued to grow in China in the first quarter, with deliveries rising to a record 24,100 units from January through March (Q1 2009: 11,800)*. This increase of 105 percent was the highest recorded by any premium manufacturer in China.

Says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars, “We aim to sell more than 100,000 passenger vehicles in China this year. The launch of the long wheelbase version of the E-Class will further intensify the dynamic growth of Mercedes-Benz in the Chinese market. The local production of an additional model will further strengthen our position the market. Over the medium term, the number of locally produced vehicles will reach the level of imports.”

In response to this market growth, Daimler is also expanding its production capacities in China. The Beijing Benz Automotive Co. Ltd. plant in Beijing is designed to produce up to 100,000 units per year in the future. The long wheelbase version of the E-Class is the second Mercedes-Benz model to be locally produced at the Beijing plant. In addition, the production of transporters has started in China: Recently, the first Mercedes-Benz Viano came off the new production line in Fuzhou China was Mercedes-Benz’ third-largest sales market in the first quarter of 2010, behind Germany and the U.S. In the same quarter of 2009 China had been in sixth place.

All Mercedes-Benz model series posted record sales in China during the first quarter of 2010. Sales of the E-Class, the C-Class, and the SUVs grew at double-digit rates. A total of 5,400 C-Class sedans were handed over to customers, while 6,400 customers bought an E-Class sedan, and 5,300 SUVs were delivered. The development was particularly favorable for the S-Class, for which China is now the world’s largest sales market, accounting for 3,700 units from January through March. The R-Class is also very popular in China, and around 7,000 B-Class cars have been sold in the country since the vehicle was launched there in early 2009. Some 2,200 customers have bought a smart fortwo since the car was introduced on the market in April 2009. Mercedes-Benz now offers 14 model ranges with a total of 52 different models in China. The sales network includes more than 140 dealerships and is being substantially expanded in order to support the brand’s growth on the Chinese market.

Mercedes-Benz also posted substantial sales growth in the other BRIC countries in the first quarter, with brand sales rising by 21 percent in India and by 40 percent in both Brazil and Russia.

In March, Mercedes-Benz continued the positive sales development of the prior two months, increasing sales by nine percent to 109,300 vehicles (March 2009: 98,500). As a result, the brand delivered 15 percent more vehicles to customers in the first quarter of 2010 than in the same quarter of the prior year.

“As expected, we concluded the first quarter successfully in terms of sales,” said Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars. “Moreover, thanks to the increasing success of the new E- and S-Class we were also able to further improve our sales mix. We will continue this positive sales trend in the coming weeks, and we anticipate another significant sales increase in the second quarter.” This increase will be generated primarily through growth for Mercedes-Benz in key sales markets such as the U.S. and China, as well as the introduction of numerous new products. The new E-Class convertible, for example, rounded out the E-Class family on March 27, which was also the day the first Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG vehicles were delivered to customers. Mercedes-Benz also recently unveiled another 2010 highlight at the New York International Auto Show — the new-generation R-Class, which will be launched in the U.S. in August, in Western Europe in September, and in China, its biggest market, in October.

Mercedes-Benz’ sales were up in all regions in the first quarter, but most especially in China (incl. Hongkong), where deliveries totaled a record 24,100 units (Q1 2009: 11,800). This increase of 105 percent was the highest recorded by any premium manufacturer in China. Mercedes-Benz also boosted its sales in China by 57 percent in March alone, to 8,500 units (March 2009: 5,400). Within the Asia/Pacific region Mercedes-Benz also posted gains in March in Japan (plus 18 percent), Australia (plus 14 percent), and South Korea (plus 95 percent). The brand also did well in the three other BRIC countries of India (plus 21 percent), Brazil (plus 40 percent), and Russia (plus 40 percent).

Sales of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the U.S. rose 22 percent to 49,200 passenger vehicles in the first three months of the year (Q1 2009: 40,200), making the brand the highest-volume German premium manufacturer in that country. Mercedes-Benz has been the U.S. market leader among the German premium brands since the beginning of the year. March sales of 19,600 units in the U.S. were 26 percent higher than during the same month last year (March 2009: 15,600). Mercedes-Benz sales in Canada climbed 24 percent in March to a record 2,700 units (Q1 2009: 2,200).

Deliveries in Western Europe (excluding Germany) totaled 70,300 units in the first quarter, seven percent more than in the same period last year (Q1 2009: 65,500). In March, sales rose by four percent to 34,000 (March 2009: 32,900) units. Mercedes-Benz posted growth in countries such as the UK (plus 15 percent), Spain (plus 24 percent), Belgium (plus 23 percent), the Netherlands (plus 25 percent), Switzerland (plus seven percent), Portugal (plus 67 percent), and Sweden (plus 67 percent). The brand once again gained market shares in Germany in March, and remains the most successful premium automaker on its home market. Sales in March amounted to 25,000 units (March 2009: 26,000; minus four percent).

The new E-Class made a big contribution to the brand’s overall sales increases in the first quarter. Worldwide sales of the sedan nearly doubled to 45,700 units, with the model maintaining its market leadership in its segment as a result. The S-Class luxury sedan recorded sales of 13,500 units during the first quarter, a 23 percent increase from the figure for Q1 2009. Sales of the C-Class sedan rose ten percent to 57,000 vehicles through March, while sales in the SUV segment increased 12 percent to 41,100 units.

A total of 10,600 smart fortwo were delivered worldwide in March (March 2009: 11,900; minus eleven percent). Sales of this vehicle are expected to rebound once the new generation of the smart fortwo is introduced in the third quarter of 2010.

Overview of sales by Mercedes-Benz Cars

Mercedes-Benz USA, MBUSA, today reported March sales of 20,023 vehicles, up 28.3%, propelling the company to a 25.7% increase for the first quarter. Healthy demand in both the Mercedes passenger car and light-truck categories fueled the increase in sales volume for the month.

In the sedan category, the popular C-Class – the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger as well as first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – maintained its lead as the volume leader with sales of 6,006. The new 9th generation E-Class continued to exhibit strong momentum with sales of 5,042 (up 154.9%) and the sporty GLK followed suit with sales of 2,333.

On a year-to-date basis, the company sold 50,566 new vehicles, an increase of 25.7% over last year.

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 7,797 vehicles in March; a 17.9 % increase compared to March 2009 sales of 6,614 vehicles. Year-to-date sales for the MBCPO program are 20,179 – a 5.3 % increase over 2009 year-to-date sales (19,161 vehicles) during the same timeframe.

Daimler AG (stock exchange abbreviation DAI) today reported U.S. sales of 15,827 Mercedes-Benz and smart vehicles. All sales figures in this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted.

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported February sales of 15,385 vehicles, an 8.4% improvement over February 2009 and a 24 percent increase on a year-to-date basis. 14,870 passenger cars, light trucks and 515 Sprinter vans are included in this total.

A key contributor to the February performance was the sporty C-Class – the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – leading the pack with sales of 4,245, up 6.4% over February 2009. The new 9th generation E-Class continued its strong momentum with sales of 4,043 – up 92.2% over February 2009. MBUSA’s versatile, compact SUV – the GLK – followed in volume with sales of 2,126, up 10.8% compared to February 2009.

On a year-to-date basis, the company sold 30,543 new vehicles, up 24% when compared to the same time last year.

smart USA recorded 442 sales in February 2010, a nearly 60 percent increase over January 2010. Since its introduction in the United States, there are nearly 40,000 smart fortwos traveling the roads throughout America. The smart fortwo offers the right balance of power, outstanding fuel efficiency, innovative safety features, environmental friendliness and excellent value. There are 77 smart centers located in 36 states.

Detailed vehicle sales information for MBUSA will be announced in a separate press release issued by Mercedes-Benz USA.

In February, Mercedes-Benz was once again able to continue its momentum of the past months, with sales increasing by 13 percent to 72,100 vehicles (February 2009: 63,600). As a result, the total number of deliveries has risen by 18 percent since the beginning of the year.

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars: “This sales result is thebasis for strong sales in the first quarter and allows us to expand our market position for the full year. We will get a boost from our competitive range of products – especially the new E-Class models – as well as from our growth in key regions such as China and the U.S.”

In March, Mercedes-Benz will be launching two new attractive products: The E-Class convertible and the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Both vehicles will come to showrooms on March 27, giving sales further momentum. Dr. Joachim Schmidt: “The introduction of the E-Class convertible will complete the E-Class family, allowing us to be in an outstanding position with regard to our competitors. The great customer response to the SLS AMG even prior to its market launch shows how fascinating our brand is. In fact, orders are far above our expectations.”

In China, sales of Mercedes-Benz once again reached a record level: 7,300 passenger vehicles were sold, more than twice as many as in the same month last year (February 2009: 3,000). Dr. Joachim Schmidt: “No other premium brand saw sales increase as much in China. In 2010, we aim to sell more than 100,000 units in China.”

In February, the pace of sales also picked up for Mercedes-Benz in Australia (plus 46 percent), South Korea (plus 177 percent), South Africa (plus 18 percent), Turkey (plus 63 percent) and Brazil (plus 23 percent).
In the U.S., Mercedes-Benz boosted sales by five percent last month, to 14,900 units (February 2009: 14,200 units). It has been the leading German premium brand in this market since the beginning of the year. Sales in Canada increased by 30 percent, to the record figure of 1,800 units (February 2009: 1,400).

Deliveries in Western Europe (excluding Germany) rose in February by 12 percent to a total of 18,000 vehicles (February 2009: 16,000). Contributing to this increase were high growth rates in the large markets of the UK (plus 48 percent), France (plus 13 percent), and Spain (plus 49 percent). In Germany, Mercedes-Benz gained market share in February through the delivery of 15,000 vehicles (February 2009: 15,900 vehicles; minus six percent).

The new E-Class continues to make a big contribution to the sales increases in the various markets. The sedan once again nearly doubled its worldwide sales to 13,200 vehicles, more than the competitors in its segment. The S-Class sedan saw sales rise in February by 18 percent. As a result, 4,000 units of the luxury sedan were handed over to customers. Mercedes-Benz also posted sales increases for other model ranges, with sales of the C-Class sedan rising by ten percent to 16,700 units. Mercedes-Benz boosted sales in the SUV segment by 18 percent to 12,700 units.

A total of 6,600 (January 2009: 8,600) smart fortwo were sold worldwide in February (minus 24 percent). The company expects sales of the smart fortwo to get a boost particularly from the market launch of the new-generation smart fortwo, which will start in the third quarter of 2010.

Overview of sales by Mercedes-Benz Cars

Daimler AG (stock exchange symbol DAI) today presented the preliminary and unaudited results of the Group and its divisions for the year 2009.

After a difficult first half of the year, Daimler succeeded in continuously improving its EBIT in the third and fourth quarters. EBIT from ongoing business increased again to plus €0.6 billion in the fourth quarter of 2009, resulting in full-year EBIT of minus €1,513 million (2008: plus €2,730 million).

The Group’s net loss was significant at €2,644 million (2008: plus €1,414 million). Earnings per share amounted to minus €2.63 (2008: plus €1.41).

Due to the net loss, the Board of Management recommends to the Supervisory Board that no dividend should be distributed for the year 2009. This decision is solely a reflection of the course of business in 2009 and is not related to the Group’s expected business development this year.

“Last year brought many great challenges also for Daimler,” stated Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, at the annual press conference. “But as the year progressed, we made the Group significantly more efficient and laid the foundations not only to overcome the upheaval affecting our industry, but to lead from a strong position. We are emerging from the crisis with plenty of torque.”

Outlook 2010

The world economy is still in a period of transition at the beginning of 2010. On the one hand, the worst of the most severe economic crisis of the post-war period has now been passed; on the other hand, there is very little hard evidence that a self-sustaining, lasting upswing has actually started. Although there are some signs of global economic recovery, there is no reason to assume that the crisis is over. However, the ongoing solid growth of emerging markets such as China and India is exerting a positive influence.

According to current estimates, worldwide demand for automobiles will grow this year in a bandwidth of between 3% and 4% compared with crisis year 2009. Growth in the upper premium automobile segments is likely to be stronger than in the market as a whole because these segments hardly profited from governments’ incentive programs last year, so no significant related effects are to be expected in 2010.

Worldwide demand for commercial vehicles should also grow again moderately after the severe crisis of last year. In the NAFTA region, a market recovery of 10% to 15% is anticipated for medium and heavy-duty trucks after three consecutive years of significant decline. In Europe, the development of demand for light-duty trucks could be slightly better than in 2009, but demand for commercial vehicles above 6 tons will probably remain similar to the prior-year level.

On the basis of its attractive and competitive range of automobiles, Mercedes-Benz Cars assumes it will be able to defend its market position even with the continuation of difficult economic conditions. We therefore aim to continue the positive development of the second half of 2009 and to increase unit sales in 2010.

Daimler Trucks and Mercedes-Benz Vans also anticipate rising unit sales. The expected growth in unit sales by Daimler Buses is likely to be driven by the South American markets. Daimler Financial Services anticipates stable development of its worldwide contract volume in the automotive business.

On the basis of assumptions concerning the development of automotive markets and the divisions’ planning, the Daimler Group therefore expects to increase its total unit sales in 2010.

Following a significant decrease in 2009, the Daimler Group assumes that its revenue will rise again this year, but will still be significantly lower than in 2008. The growth will probably be driven by all the automotive divisions.

In a very challenging economic environment in 2010, Daimler expects to post Group EBIT of more than €2.3 billion from its ongoing business. This will be the result of the market success of new products, a moderate upward development of the most important markets, and intensified efforts to increase efficiency.

• The divisions’ EBIT expectations for 2010:
• Mercedes-Benz Cars anticipates EBIT of more than €1.5 billion.
• Daimler Trucks expects to post EBITof approximately €200 million.
• Mercedes-Benz Vans anticipates EBIT in the region of €250 million.
• Daimler Buses expects EBIT of €180 million.
• Daimler Financial Services assumes it will be able to improve its EBIT to at least €350 million.
• In the reconciliation of the total for the divisions to Group EBIT, Daimler anticipates a charge of approximately €200 million.

Financial year 2009

The main reason for the Group’s unsatisfactory profitability in 2009 is that vehicle unit sales fell in all segments due to the global economic crisis. However, the decline in earnings was significantly alleviated by measures taken by the Group at an early stage to adjust costs in an amount of €5.3 billion, as well as by further efficiency enhancements in the context of the optimization programs already running.

EBIT in the reporting period was additionally reduced by charges related to optimizing and repositioning the business operations of the subsidiaries Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (€245 million) and Daimler Trucks North America (€95 million). The decline in earnings at Daimler Financial Services was primarily due to the increased cost of risk. An additional charge of €100 million was incurred at Daimler Financial Services on the disposal and valuation of available-for-sale non-automotive assets. Furthermore, lower interest rates for the discounting of non-current provisions and the significantly increased annual contribution to the German Pension Security Association led to expenses of €388 million and €164 million.

Chrysler had a negative impact on Group EBIT of €294 million in 2009, mainly resulting from the agreement concluded in the second quarter, in the context of which Daimler also disposed of its remaining 19.9% of Chrysler shares.

• Special items affecting earnings in the past two years are detailed in the table on pages 12 and 13.
• Daimler sold a total of 1.6 million vehicles in 2009 (2008: 2.1 million).
• Group revenue decreased by 20% to €78.9 billion; adjusted for exchange-rate effects, there was a decrease of 21%.

The free cash flow of the industrial business was significantly positive at plus €2.7 billion despite the difficult economic situation (2008: minus €3.9 billion). The main reason for the increase in the free cash flow was the development of inventories and trade receivables as well as investments in property, plant and equipment, which offset the negative effects from the divisions’ earnings. The free cash flow was reduced, however, by contributions to pension plans and a reduction in trade payables.

The net liquidity of the industrial business increased by €4.2 billion to €7.3 billion.

In recognition of the committed efforts of the workforce in a difficult environment, the Board of Management has decided to make a special payment in 2010 of €500 to the employees of Daimler AG who are paid according to salary and wage-tariff agreements.

Daimler adjusted its personnel capacities to the significantly lower levels of demand in 2009. The total number of persons employed by the Daimler Group worldwide decreased to 256,407 as of December 31, 2009 (Dec. 31, 2008: 273,216). Of that total, 162,565 were employed in Germany (2008: 167,753). The number of apprentices and trainees was 9,151 (2008: 9,603).

Despite the difficult environment, the Daimler Group invested €6.6 billion in research and development and property, plant and equipment in 2009 (2008: €8.0 billion).

Daimler intends to play an active part in shaping the technological transformation facing the automotive industry with pioneering innovations also in the future. The Group therefore maintained a high level of research and development expenditure of €4.2 billion last year (2008: €4.4 billion). The main areas of work were new, extremely fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly drive technologies, in line with the “Road to Emission-free Mobility” initiative. The Group is working on optimizing conventional drive technologies and enhancing their efficiency through hybridization, as well as on electric vehicles with fuel-cell drive and battery power. Another focus is on new safety technologies.

In the years 2010 and 2011, Daimler plans to spend a total of €9.7 billion on its research and development activities. €6.1 billion of that total will be spent at the Mercedes-Benz Cars division.

In 2009, the Group invested €2.4 billion on property, plant and equipment (2008: €3.6 billion); €1.7 billion of that total was invested in Germany (2008: €2.5 billion). Due to the new requirements placed on the products and the need to offer sustainable solutions for the mobility of the future, a total of €8.1 billion will be invested in property, plant and equipment in the years 2010 and 2011. Above all at Mercedes-Benz Cars and Daimler Trucks, the planned investment in property, plant and equipment will be significantly higher than in the prior years.

The divisions in detail

Mercedes-Benz Cars, comprising the brands Mercedes-Benz, Maybach and smart, sold 1,093,900 vehicles in an extremely difficult market environment (2008: 1,273,000). The Mercedes-Benz brand shipped 974,700 vehicles (2008: 1,125,900). Following a very successful prior year, unit sales of the smart fortwo decreased to 113,900 units in the third year of the current model (2008: 139,000).

Revenue fell by 14% to €41.3 billion as a result of the decline in unit sales.

After a difficult first half of the year, the division’s performance improved continuously as the year progressed. EBIT of plus €608 million was achieved in the fourth quarter, resulting in full-year EBIT of minus €500 million, compared to plus €2,117 million in 2008. The sharp fall in earnings was primarily due to the significant weakening of demand for cars and the resulting drop in unit sales. This development was only partially offset by the successful launch of the new E-Class, which in many markets only became fully available in the second half of the year. Charges on earnings also resulted from continued intense competition and pressure on prices in automobile markets, from a less favorable model mix and from expenditure for research and development.

The average CO2 emissions of the cars sold by Daimler in the European Union were reduced by 13 grams to 160 grams per kilometer in 2009. By the year 2012, Mercedes-Benz Cars wants to reduce the average CO2 emissions of its new-car fleet in the EU to below 140 g/km.

At Daimler Trucks, unit sales fell to 259,300 vehicles due to the global financial and economic crisis and the biggest worldwide decline in demand for transport services of the last 50 years (2008: 472,100). The sales decline affected all the division’s core markets (Europe, the United States, Latin America and Japan). Revenue decreased by 36% to €18.4 billion. Markets have stabilized at a low level in the second half of the year.

Daimler Trucks’ EBIT of minus €1,001 million was significantly lower than the very strong result of the prior year (2008: plus €1,607 million). Lower unit sales of commercial vehicles had a substantial impact on the development of earnings in 2009. The comprehensive repositioning of the business operations of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation and of Daimler Trucks North America resulted in charges of €340 million. The division’s operating result excluding special reporting items amounted to minus €179 million in the fourth quarter.

Mercedes-Benz Vans was also unable to avoid the general market development and sold 165,600 units last year. Sales of Sprinter, Vario, Viano, and Vito models were thus significantly lower than the very high figure of 287,200 units sold in 2008. Revenue decreased by 34% to €6.2 billion.

Despite the drastic fall in unit sales, the division continuously improved its performance as the year progressed. EBIT of plus €126 million was achieved in the fourth quarter, resulting in full-year EBIT of plus €26 million (2008: €818 million).

With sales of 32,500 complete buses and bus chassis (2008: 40,600) and revenue of €4.2 billion (2008: €4.8 billion), Daimler Buses remained by far the leading manufacturer of buses over eight tons gross vehicle weight in 2009. The decline in unit sales was largely a result of significantly weaker demand in Mexico and Latin American markets.

The division achieved EBIT of €183 million (2008: €406 million). The reduction in earnings was primarily due to the worldwide slump in demand.

Daimler Financial Services’ business development in the year 2009 was also affected by the global financial and economic crisis. Due to lower vehicle unit sales, new business fell by 15% to €25.1 billion. The weaker new business and the sale of parts of the non-automotive portfolio in North America led to an 8% decrease in worldwide contract volume to €58.3 billion.

The division achieved EBIT of just better than breakeven in 2009 at €9 million (2008: €677 million). This earnings trend was primarily caused by increased expenses related to higher credit risk. There was also a charge of €100 million on the disposal and valuation of non-automotive assets.

The “reconciliation” item primarily reflects Chrysler-related items and Daimler’s proportionate share in the results of its equity-method investment in EADS.

As a result of the agreement entered into in the second quarter of 2009 between Daimler, Chrysler, Cerberus and the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, in the context of which the Group disposed of its remaining 19.9% interest in Chrysler, total expenses of €378 million were incurred. The legal transfer of Chrysler’s international sales activities to Chrysler LLC and the valuation of Chrysler-related assets resulted in gains totaling €84 million.

Daimler’s share in the profit of EADS amounted to €88 million (2008: €177 million). Possible charges have not yet been taken into consideration arising from the negotiations running between EADS and the ordering countries concerning the financing of the A400M military aircraft.

The Annual Report and other information connected with the Group’s financial statements for the year 2009 are expected to be published on the Internet on March 2. The Annual Report will be available in printed form as of the middle of March.

Special items affecting earnings in the past two years are shown in the following table:

The figures in this document are preliminary and have not yet been approved by the Supervisory Board nor audited by the external auditors.

In January, Mercedes-Benz continued the positive trend of the past few months by posting significant increases in its worldwide sales. A total of 67,000 passenger cars were delivered to customers, 24 percent more than in the previous year (2009: 53,900 vehicles).

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars: “We started the new year successfully with a strong increase in sales. That was due to the large increases in many regions such as North America, Asia/Pacific, and the BRIC countries, as well as the continuing success of our new E- and S-Class. In the coming weeks we will be building on this excellent start. We expect to see significant growth in the first quarter.”

An additional boost will be provided by the full availability of the E-Class family. Orders are being accepted for the new convertible since January 11, 2010. The customer response has been excellent. The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is also very popular, with the customer response considerably exceeding expectations. Deliveries of both new products in Western Europe will start at the end of March.

Mercedes-Benz continued to develop dynamically in the markets in January, especially in China, where it posted a new record: Customer deliveries there totaled 8,300 units, more than double the figure posted in January 2009 (2009: 3,400). This means that Mercedes-Benz continues to grow faster than its competitors in the premium segment. In January, Mercedes-Benz was also very successful in Japan (plus 11 percent), Australia (plus 50 percent), South Korea (plus 238 percent), and South Africa (plus 12 percent). New records were set for sales in January in the BRIC countries India (plus 213 percent) and Russia (plus 17 percent). Mercedes-Benz also significantly increased its sales in Brazil (29 percent).

In the U.S., Mercedes-Benz was the fastest-growing premium brand in January and significantly increased its market share. With a market share of 2.1 percent, Mercedes-Benz is the market leader among German premium brands. Its passenger car sales increased by 40 percent to 14,700 units (2009: 10,500 units). Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz also posted a sales record in Canada in January, delivering 1,600 passenger vehicles to customers (January 2009: 1,200) for an increase of 34 percent.

Sales in January were particularly affected in Western Europe by the down time at the production plants and customer centers in Germany. The Mercedes-Benz brand sold 9,300 passenger vehicles in the German market (January 2009: 11,300, minus 18 percent). At 18,600 units, sales in the other countries of Western Europe were ten percent higher than in the same month of last year (January 2009: 16,900). Mercedes-Benz posted big gains in the UK (plus 18 percent), France (plus seven percent), Spain (plus 24 percent), Switzerland (plus 30 percent), Portugal (plus 44 percent), and Sweden (plus 43 percent).

The new E-Class continued to do very well. The sedan doubled its worldwide deliveries to 13,900 units. The vehicle posted great gains in almost all markets, including the U.S., where sales more than doubled to 3,800 units, as well as in Germany (1,200 units/plus 66 percent) and China. In China, deliveries were four times higher than in the same month of last year, amounting to 2,300 units. The new-generation S-Class also recorded strong growth in January, with worldwide deliveries increasing by 50 percent to 4.300 units. A total of 1,300 S-Class vehicles were delivered to customers last month in China, representing a 46 percent increase over the same month of last year. Vehicle sales were also up sharply in the United States (plus 57 percent) and Germany (plus 75 percent) last month.

The other Mercedes-Benz model series were also successful in January, with sales of the C-Class sedan rising by eleven percent to 15,000 units, thus once again confirming the vehicle’s market leadership. In its largest market, the U.S., the C-Class saw sales rise by 33 percent in January, to 4,000 units. In China, meanwhile, deliveries doubled to 1,700 units. Mercedes-Benz boosted sales in the SUV segment by 20 percent to 12,600 units. Sales of the GLK grew at a double-digit rate in many Western European markets, and the vehicle was once again far ahead of its main competitors in the U.S.. The M-, GL-, and G-Class SUVs also posted double-digit gains in the U.S. in January.

A total of 5,600 (January 2009: 8,300) smart fortwos were sold in January (minus 33 percent). The company expects sales of the smart brand to get a boost particularly from the market launch of the new-generation smart fortwo, which will start in the third quarter of 2010.

Overview of sales by Mercedes-Benz Cars

Daimler AG (stock exchange abbreviation DAI) today reported sales for the Mercedes-Benz Cars division in the U.S. (Mercedes-Benz and smart combined) of 15,436 units, an increase of 26.4percent compared to January 2009. All sales figures in this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted.

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported January sales of 15,158 vehicles, a 45.3 percent improvement over January 2009, starting 2010 with robust momentum.

Strong demand in both the Mercedes sedan and light-truck categories fueled the increase in sales volume for the month. In the sedan category, the popularity of the C-Class – the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – maintained its lead as the volume leader with sales of 4,028, up 32.8 percent over January 2009. The all-new, 9th generation E-Class continued to shine with sales of 3,824, up an astounding 116.3 percent over January 2009.

As further proof of the Mercedes-Benz competitive presence in the luxury light truck market, the champion M-Class reported sales of 1,927, up 42.2 percent over last January; the sporty GLK followed suit with sales of 1,803, up 38.7 percent – beating its launch numbers of 1,300 posted in January 2009.

smart USA recorded 278 sales in January 2010. Since its introduction in the United States, there are nearly 40,000 smart fortwos traveling the roads throughout America. The smart fortwo offers the right balance of power, outstanding fuel efficiency, innovative safety features, environmental friendliness and excellent value. There are 77 smart centers located in 36 states.

Detailed vehicle sales information for MBUSA will be announced in a separate press release issued by Mercedes-Benz USA.

Mercedes-Benz successfully defended its position in 2009, despite facing very difficult market conditions. In December the brand once again significantly increased sales, which grew by 12 percent to 97,700 units (December 2008: 87.100). In doing so, it continued the positive trend of the past several months. As a result, Mercedes-Benz was the premium brand with the strongest growth in the world, not only in December but during the entire fourth quarter. During the year as a whole, Mercedes-Benz delivered 1,012,300 vehicles to customers (2008: 1,121,700 – minus 9.7 percent). In 2009 Mercedes-Benz performed better than the total market in many markets, including the U.S., China, Canada, Russia, the UK, South Korea, and Brazil, thus gaining market shares.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: “We were able to steadily increase our sales in the second half of the year after facing strong market declines in the first six months. Sales in the fourth quarter were substantially higher than in the same period of the previous year, increasing by 13 percent. The new E-Class and the new-generation S-Class contributed particularly to this achievement. Our big success in China also had a positive effect on sales, as we were once again the fastest-growing premium brand in the country in 2009.”

Attractive new products and pioneering innovations for sustainable mobility in 2009

Besides the E-Class and the S-Class, Mercedes-Benz also presented the updated generation of the GL in 2009. At the same time, the company forged ahead with numerous innovations in the area of sustainable mobility. With the S 400 HYBRID, for example, Mercedes-Benz became the first European manufacturer to introduce a series-produced hybrid car with a lithium-ion battery to the market. Toward the end of the year, the division also launched two electric cars that produce no local emissions and are fully suited to everyday driving: the smart fortwo electric drive and the Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-CELL. In addition, it expanded its range of economical BlueEFFICIENCY vehicles to 58 models.

Competitive range of products in 2010 – sales expected to be slightly higher than last year

Mercedes-Benz will also offer its customers many attractive new products in 2010, beginning with the new E-Class convertible, which will round out the E-Class model family and be available for purchase beginning on January 11. “We are superbly positioned this year with a range of attractive and competitive products. We will especially benefit right away from the fact that the entire E-Class family will be available; increases in the growth markets, above all in China, will also have a positive impact on our sales. We therefore expect sales to be slightly higher in 2010 than last year and that we will successfully defend our position against the competition,” Zetsche added.

Positive momentum in 2010 will also be generated by the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, deliveries of which will commence in the first quarter of 2010. Customer response to this vehicle has already far surpassed expectations. Amongst other new products, Mercedes-Benz will expand its range of BlueEFFICIENCY vehicles to 76 models in 2010.

Record sales in China – Mercedes-Benz is fastest-growing premium brand in the country

Mercedes-Benz sales in China reached a new all-time high in 2009, far surpassing the previous record set in 2008. For the year as a whole, deliveries increased by 65 percent to 70,100 passenger vehicles (2008: 42,600). Mercedes-Benz sales more than doubled in December, to 9,500 vehicles. As a result, sales at Mercedes-Benz grew much faster in 2009 than the market as a whole and outpaced the sales of its premium-segment competitors. The double-digit growth rates of the E-Class, the C-Class, and the SUVs, as well as the success of the S-Class, all contributed strongly to this sales record. China is now the world’s largest market for the S-Class luxury sedan. The vehicle has a market share of around 40 percent in the country, which puts it far ahead of its competitors as the number one car in its market segment. Mercedes-Benz plans to stay on its successful course in China in the coming year and to grow much faster than the market as a whole.

Mercedes-Benz also posted record sales in the Asia/Pacific region as a whole, with deliveries increasing by 13 percent to 165,300 units (2008: 145,800). The growth in December alone was 77 percent. In December, Mercedes-Benz also posted its first strong sales growth of the year in Japan, where deliveries rose by 19 percent to 3,400 units (December 2008: 2,800). Mercedes-Benz recorded strong growth in South Korea during full-year 2009. Customer deliveries there totaled 8,900 units (2008: 7,100), an increase of 26 percent on the previous year. The brand also grew in Australia, with sales rising by five percent to 15,900 vehicles during the year as a whole (2008: 15,100) and even by 90 percent in December. Mercedes-Benz also continued to be very successful in Brazil, where sales increased by 46 percent in 2009, to 5,200 vehicles (2008: 3,600).

Mercedes-Benz remains strongest premium brand in its home market

In Germany, Mercedes-Benz sustained its position as the best-selling premium brand in 2009. At 22,100 units, sales in December reached a level roughly equivalent to the one reached in the same month of the previous year (December 2008: 23,300 units). In all, the brand delivered 265,500 vehicles to customers in its home market (2008: 300,900 – minus 12 percent). Sales in Western Europe (excluding Germany) were up by six percent in December compared to the previous year’s level, to 27,100 units (December 2008: 25,600). Sales rose in nearly all the major markets, including the UK (plus 43 percent), France (plus six percent), Italy (plus one percent), and Belgium (plus 10 percent). Last year, Mercedes-Benz delivered a total of 286,100 passenger cars to customers in Western Europe (excluding Germany) (2008: 337,000 units – minus 15 percent).

Double-digit growth in the U.S. in the fourth quarter – a sales record in Canada

Mercedes-Benz has clearly recovered in the U.S. since September 2009 and was the best-selling German premium brand in the country in the fourth quarter. At 20,000 units, the brand posted its best result of 2009 in December (December 2008: 18,500). Growth totaled eight percent. Mercedes-Benz delivered a total of 190,600 passenger vehicles in full-year 2009 (2008: 225,100 – minus 15 percent). Nevertheless , Mercedes-Benz considerably outperformed the market as a whole. The latter declined by 21 percent, enabling the brand to increase its market share during the year. T he new E-Class and S-Class models generated momentum and double-digit growth rates in the fourth quarter. The GLK also remained successful, and its sales of 21,900 units put it ahead of its key competitors in 2009 as the leading vehicle in its segment. As in 2008, Mercedes-Benz once again posted a sales record in Canada in full-year 2009, with sales rising by 19 percent to 24,300 vehicles (2008: 20,400).

New E-Class and S-Class boost sales

The new E-Class models performed very well in 2009 and helped to give sales an important boost. The sedan met with an outstanding customer response from the very start, and it has continuously led its segment since May. Its market share of about 60 percent in Germany and around 40 percent in Western Europe puts it far ahead of its competitors. For the world as a whole, sales of the sedan increased 26 percent in full-year 2009, to 158,000 units. Deliveries even rose by 77 percent in December, to 17,300 vehicles. More than 200,000 vehicles from the E-Class segment were sold worldwide last year. Deliveries of the new E-Class station wagon commenced on November 11, 2009.

The new generation of the S-Class was successfully launched as well, contributing to the sales increase at Mercedes-Benz particularly in the fourth quarter. Sales of the sedan rose by 31 percent in December, making this its strongest month of the year: 6,400 vehicles were delivered to customers all over the world. Despite the introduction of new models by competitors, the new S-Class was the best-selling luxury sedan in its segment during the whole year, with deliveries of 53,400 vehicles. And the response to the S 400 HYBRID exceeded expectations. Within the luxury segment, Mercedes-Benz Cars crowned its range of luxury sedans by introducing the Maybach Zeppelin in 2009. Despite the very difficult market situation, a total of 200 Maybach vehicles (2008: 300) were delivered to customers in 2009. The brand gained market share in many countries and did better than the segment as a whole.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedans led their respective segments in 2009

With sales of 226,700 units, the C-Class sedan once again took the lead in its segment in 2009. In December sales of the sedan reached the previous year’s level, amounting to 19,700 units. Sales of Mercedes-Benz SUVs rose by seven percent during the year as a whole, with 171,500 units delivered to customers (2008: 160,600). A big contributing factor was the market success of the GLK, which once again posted double-digit growth rates in many Western European markets in December. With 19,900 A-Class and B-Class segment vehicles delivered in December, sales almost reached the level of the previous year. In 2009 a total of 219,300 customers received A-Class or B-Class compact cars.

smart fortwo successfully launched in new markets in 2009

The smart fortwo was successfully launched in new markets in 2009. A total of 1,800 customers have purchased the two-seater in China since April 2009, while 1,100 units were delivered in Brazil. The key markets for the smart fortwo in 2009 were Germany, where sales were two percent higher than in the previous year and amounted to 32,400 units, followed by Italy (29,500 units) and the U.S. (14,600 units). Sales of the two-seater increased significantly in the UK, its fourth-largest market. Here, sales for full-year 2009 rose by 11 percent to 8,400 units. Following the record sales of 2008, worldwide deliveries declined by 13 percent in 2009, to 116,900 units (2008: 134,700). Beginning in the third quarter of 2010, the company expects the smart brand to get an additional sales boost from the introduction of the facelifted smart fortwo.

Daimler AG (stock exchange abbreviation DAI) today reported sales for the Mercedes-Benz Cars division in the U.S. (Mercedes-Benz and smart combined) of 20,889 units, an increase of 0.2 percent compared to December 2008. All sales figures in this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted.

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported December sales of 20,025 vehicles, its highest monthly volume of the year, bringing the company’s total 2009 volume to 190,604 and narrowing the gap versus last year to 15.3 percent.

Ernst Lieb, president and CEO of MBUSA said: “The strong finish to a year marked by challenges on every front, underscores the customer confidence in the Mercedes-Benz brand and the unstinting efforts we have undertaken in partnership with our retail network to provide an unparalleled ownership experience.”

The C-Class – the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – was the volume leader for the year with sales of 52,427 vehicles, a 27.7 percent decrease from last year. The all-new, 9th generation E-Class, launched in late June, bucked the industry sales trend by increasing its volume year-over year by 11.7 percent (43,072 versus last year’s 38,576). Rounding out the top three volume lines was the popular M-Class SUV which recorded a 21 percent increase in December, bringing the annual volume to 25,799.

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 5,098 vehicles in December 2009. This boosted the MBCPO year-end total to 71,886 units, an 11.2 percent increase over the annual sales record set last year.

smart USA recorded 864 sales in December 2009. This represents a 33% increase over November 2009. Year-to-date sales total 14,595 units. Since its introduction in the United States, there are nearly 40,000 smart fortwos traveling the roads throughout America. The smart fortwo offers the right balance of power, outstanding fuel efficiency, innovative safety features, environmental friendliness and excellent value. There are 78 smart centers located in 36 states.

Mercedes-Benz continues to post strong growth in China. The brand with the star was the fastest-growing premium brand in China in the year to date and will remain so for the full year as well. Already by September, sales of Mercedes-Benz had reached the same level as in all of 2008, and they are expected to increase by more than 60 percent in full-year 2009 compared to 2008. “We posted record sales in every month this year in China, and we will continue to grow dynamically there in the future,” said Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. “We will expand our presence on the Chinese market next year as well, and we expect to continue to grow faster than the market as a whole. We also expect to receive a boost from the long wheelbase version of the new E-Class, which we will offer especially for the Chinese market from the middle of next year.”

In November, Mercedes-Benz once again set a sales record in China, tripling the number of vehicles sold to 8,700 units. As a result, the brand has sold a total of 60,700 passenger vehicles in China (including Hong Kong), representing an increase of 56 percent. The new generation of the S-Class and the new E-Class sedan both saw sales triple in November: A total of 2,000 S-Class luxury sedans were handed over to customers, while 1,500 buyers opted for an E-Class sedan. As a result, 12,800 S-Class and 10,400 E-Class sedans have been delivered to customers since the beginning of the year. The E-Class was introduced to China last July, and the S-Class was launched there last August. China is the world’s largest market for the S-Class. The vehicle has a market share of around 40 percent in the country, giving it a big lead over its competitors in its market segment. In addition, the S 400 HYBRID has been available in China since September 2009 and has met with great customer’s response.

Deliveries of the C-Class sedan doubled in November to 1,700 units, resulting in total sales of 15,100 C-Class vehicles from January to November. Sales of sports utility vehicles (SUVs) have also doubled since the beginning of the year, to 14,400 units. The newly introduced GLK alone accounted for 4,000 units, putting it ahead of its premium competitors to become the Number 1 vehicle in its segment.

The B-Class and the smart fortwo were also successfully launched in China this year. A total of 4,200 B-Class vehicles have been sold since the model series was introduced on the market at the beginning of the year, while the smart fortwo has been doing well since April 2009, with sales of 1,500 units. Mercedes-Benz Cars offers 16 model ranges in China, with a total of 52 different models. The sales network currently encompasses approximately 130 dealerships and is scheduled to be expanded next year.

Growth also posted in the other BRIC countries: Brazil, India, and Russia

Mercedes-Benz also grew in the other BRIC countries in November. Sales of Mercedes-Benz vehicles were up 81 percent in Brazil in November, and 25 percent in India. Meanwhile, the brand grew by three percent in Russia in November.

Higher production capacities in China and India

Due to the high local demand, Mercedes-Benz Cars is focusing the activities of its production network in China and India strongly on these growth markets. For example, the production capacity of the BBDC Automotive Cooperation in Beijing will be substantially increased. The plant currently produces the C-Class for the Chinese market. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz India opened a new production plant in Chakan, Pune, in February. The facility’s total area of approximately 400 hectares offers additional space for expanding production capacity.

Mercedes-Benz posted a strong increase in sales in November, and was the premium brand achieving the highest growth rate worldwide. Last month, 88,600 vehicles were delivered to customers, a 19 percent increase (November 2008: 74,400). The Mercedes-Benz Cars division as a whole posted a 16 percent sales increase in November, to 98,400 units (November 2008: 84,500). The rise in sales last month was a result of double-digit increases for the E-Class and new-generation S-Class, plus strong sales growth in many regions such as Western Europe, North America, Asia/Pacific, and the BRIC nations.

“As expected, in November we built on October’s positive development and once again significantly increased sales worldwide,” says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. “In many markets, we further expanded our position and gained additional market shares.” The company expects sales for the fourth quarter as a whole to be significantly higher than in the prior year, mainly thanks to the new E-Class and the new-generation S-Class. “Additional sales momentum will be generated over the next few weeks by the new E-Class estate, which reached the dealerships on November 21 and has been a big hit with customers,” Schmidt added.

Turning to individual markets, Mercedes-Benz once again posted record sales in China, which is the fourth-largest market for the brand’s vehicles. A total of 8,700 passenger cars were delivered in China last month, nearly three times the number sold in November 2008. Mercedes-Benz has grown faster than any other premium brand in China. Mercedes-Benz also delivered more vehicles than ever before in the Asia/Pacific region as a whole last month. In fact, it nearly doubled its result compared with November 2008 by selling 17,300 units. A record number of deliveries were recorded by the brand in Australia as well, where sales of 1,700 units represented an increase of 66 percent (November 2008: 1,000 units).

Sales of Mercedes-Benz vehicles were up 81 percent in the Brazilian growth market and 25 percent in India. The brand increased its sales in Russia by three percent last month, mainly due to the new E-Class, whose sales more than doubled, and the double-digit sales growth recorded for the S-Class.

Deliveries in the U.S. bucked the market trend, and increased significantly by 19 percent to 16,800 units (November 2008: 14,100). Mercedes-Benz thus maintained its position as the strongest German premium brand on the U.S. market. Growth in the U.S. was driven primarily by the new E-Class, sales of which doubled to 4,800 units, as well as by the new-generation S-Class, whose sales increased significantly (plus12 percent). The GLK remains the most vehicle in its class ahead of the premium competitors with 1,700 vehicles sold in November. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz posted another sales record in Canada in November, increasing deliveries by 26 percent to 2,100 passenger vehicles (November 2008: 1,600).

Sales of Mercedes-Benz vehicles on the brand’s home German market in November totaled 22,800 units, an increase of three percent (November 2008: 22,100). Positive sales developments in Germany were achieved with the E-Class sedan, deliveries of which doubled in November compared to the prior year, as well as with the C-Class sedan (plus 10 percent) and the A-Class (plus 19 percent). Mercedes-Benz increased deliveries in Western Europe (excluding Germany) by 12 percent in November, and was able to gain additional market share in many countries. Sales in the UK doubled to 6,200 passenger cars, while in France they were up by two percent, in Belgium by 18 percent, and in Sweden by 20 percent.

The new E-Class continued to perform well in November. In fact, the sedan maintained its market leadership through a doubling of worldwide deliveries to 15,700 units. Here, double-digit growth was recorded in nearly all markets. The new-generation S-Class also recorded strong growth in November, with worldwide deliveries increasing by 35 percent to 5,500 units. The new S-Class was the best-selling sedan in its segment. Particularly high growth rates for the model were recorded in China, where the number of vehicles sold tripled to 2,000. Sales of the new S-Class were also up in Western Europe (plus 22 percent) and Russia (plus 16 percent) last month.

The C-Class sedan recorded a six percent increase in deliveries last month, to 18,200 units (November 2008: 17,300), thus maintaining its position as the market leader in its segment since the beginning of the year. Worldwide sales of Mercedes-Benz SUVs rose in November, by 12 percent to 15,700 units (November 2008: 14,000). Very popular among customers is the GLK, which posted double-digit sales growth in many Western European markets in November. Worldwide deliveries of the A- and B-Class rose seven percent last month, to 18,500 units (November 2008: 17,300). This was largely due to the high rates of growth posted in many Western European markets and the successful launch of the B-Class in China in January 2009.

The smart brand sold 9,800 vehicles worldwide last month and succeeded in stabilize its sales (November 2008: 10,100 vehicles, minus four percent).The sales result for smart was largely due to growth in Germany (+20 percent), the UK (+ 30 percent), and Italy (+17 percent), as well as positive developments in China and Brazil.

In October, global sales were up at Mercedes-Benz for the first time this year. Mercedes-Benz was able to increase sales significantly in October by seven percent to 88,400 units (October 2008: 82,500. The smart brand sold 9,300 (October 2008: 11,300) units (minus 18 percent). With the delivery of 97,700 passenger cars (October 2008: 93,800), total sales at Mercedes-Benz Cars increased by four percent. The October sales increase was due to the E-Class and the new generation of the S-Class as well as to high growth rates in many regions such as North America and Asia/Pacific. Sales of Mercedes-Benz vehicles were also above last year’s level in Western Europe.

“We will continue this positive trend in the coming months, and we expect sales in the fourth quarter to be above the level of the same period of last year,” said Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Head of Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars. Contributing to this development will be the new E-Class and the new generation S-Class, as well as the ongoing strong growth rates in the Asia/Pacific region, particularly in China. By the end of September, Mercedes-Benz had already sold more vehicles in China than in all of last year. Says Schmidt: “Mercedes-Benz Cars will continue to grow at a dynamic rate in China, and we expect the increase for 2009 as a whole to amount to more than 50 percent.”

In October Mercedes-Benz once again set a sales record in China, with sales rising by 78 percent to 6,600 units (October 2008: 3,700). As a result, since the start of the year, Mercedes-Benz has been the fastest-growing premium brand in China. In October, Mercedes-Benz Cars also delivered more vehicles than ever before to the Asia/Pacific region as a whole, handing over 14,100 passenger vehicles to customers (October 2008: 10,500) for an increase of 34 percent. High growth rates were also posted in October in Australia (up 22 percent) and South Korea (up 63 percent).

In the United States, October was the best month of the year so far for Mercedes-Benz. Sales bucked the general market trend, rising by 21 percentto 18,200 units (October 2008: 15,000). This was the first time this year that sales were substantially higher than in 2008, and ensured that Mercedes-Benz remains the strongest German premium brand in the U.S. Contributing factors here included the E-Class, deliveries of which tripled to 6,100 units, and the GLK, which was once again the best-selling vehicle in its class in October, with deliveries of 1,800 units. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz posted another sales record in Canada in October, increasing customer deliveries by 28 percent to 2,200 passenger vehicles (October 2008: 1,700).

In the Western Europe region (not including Germany), Mercedes-Benz increased its sales by seven percent in October, thanks in particular to the high increases for the new E-Class. The brand enjoyed strong growth amounting to 55 percent in the UK, with a total of 5,800 units sold.

Sales of new E-Class continued to develop positively in the past month, with worldwide deliveries doubling in October to 17,100 units. Double-digit sales increases were registered in almost all markets. That made it once again the clear market leader in its segment. The company expects the launch of the new station wagon, which can be seen at dealerships starting on November 21, to give an additional positive boost to the E-Class family.

The new generation of the S-Class also got off to a successful start. Worldwide sales of the S-Class sedan were slightly above the previous year’s level. Since the beginning of this year, the sedan has been the best-selling sedan in its segment. In China, which is now the biggest market for the S-Class, 1,100 luxury sedans were delivered to customers in October alone, which represents an increase of 12 percent. The sedan also sold very well in Germany, with an increase of 42 percent, and in Japan, where October sales increased by 13 percent. Mercedes-Benz sold 15,100 units of its SUVs worldwide (2008: 14,800), with an increase of two percent. The GLK, which was especially popular, enjoyed mainly double-digit growth rates in the Western European markets.

After returning to profitability in the third quarter of 2009, Daimler AG (stock-exchange abbreviation DAI) anticipates positive EBIT from its ongoing business also in the fourth quarter. However, general economic developments and their effects on dealerships and suppliers could lead to an impact on fourth-quarter earnings.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management (CEO) of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: “In recent months, we have increasingly mastered the crisis. Daimler has been able to maintain its financial flexibility and has intensified the actions taken to enhance efficiency, while pushing forward with the development of new products and markets. We are now very well positioned and can look with confidence to the coming year, which will remain challenging due to the still-difficult situation of automobile markets worldwide.”

Daimler anticipates significant decreases in unit sales and revenue in full-year 2009 (2008: 2.1 million vehicles and €95.9 billion).

The Group has taken measures to cut costs and avoid additional expenditure. These actions include reducing fixed and material costs, reducing labor costs and streamlining the Group’s organizational structures. The measures taken are a supplement to the existing efficiency-enhancing programs. Daimler now assumes that it will surpass the original target of saving a total of €4 billion in full-year 2009.

Despite the still-difficult situation of the world’s financial markets, the Daimler Group has a sound financial position, which should remain stable also during the fourth quarter. Due to its current very high levels of liquidity, it is intended to make use of the capital markets to only a slight extent during the rest of this year.

The free cash flow of the industrial business increased to plus €2.3 billion in the first three quarters of the year, primarily due to the effective management of inventories, receivables and payables. Due to higher payments to suppliers and a seasonal inventory increase at the end of the year, from today’s perspective, the Group forecasts a negative cash flow in the fourth quarter. For full-year 2009, Daimler expects a positive free cash flow in the industrial business.

Mercedes-Benz Cars assumes that business will continue to improve in the last quarter of the year. Sales impetus will be provided not only by the recently launched new E-Class models and the station wagon to be launched in November, but also by the new generation of the S-Class, which was launched at the end of June 2009. However, Mercedes-Benz Cars will not be able to fully compensate for the weakness during the year to date of some important sales markets and market segments.

Overall, the division’s unit sales will therefore be lower in 2009 than in the prior year. Daimler sees lower volumes above all in the markets of the United States, Western Europe and Japan. But unit sales will be partially stabilized by growth in the emerging markets, particularly in China.

With support from the new E-Class station wagon and the full availability of the E-Class sedan, unit sales in the fourth quarter of the year are expected to be higher than in the third quarter.

Based on the expected development of unit sales and ongoing efficiency improvements, Mercedes-Benz Cars anticipates a moderate improvement in earnings from the ongoing business in the fourth quarter of the year compared to the third quarter.

At Daimler Trucks, orders received have improved continuously in recent months. Nonetheless, the division anticipates a significant decrease in unit sales in full-year 2009 as a result of substantially lower demand for transport services and underutilized transport capacities. From today’s perspective, unit sales in the last quarter of the year are expected to be similar to the volume sold in the third quarter. The division assumes that its market shares will at least remain stable in the major markets, although its regional mix will change. Whereas unit sales will rise in Asia, the European markets’ share of total unit sales will decrease.

The weak condition of major markets will also be reflected by the development of the division’s earnings, and the fourth quarter will be additionally affected by the unfavorable regional mix of its sales structure. The measures taken to reduce costs will only partially offset that negative effect.

The expenses of the measures initiated to restructure and reposition the business operations of Daimler Trucks North America and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation will reduce EBIT once again in the fourth quarter of 2009.

Overall, EBIT in the fourth quarter is likely to be lower than in the third quarter.

Despite the continuation of the very difficult economic situation in major regions, Mercedes-Benz Vans expects unit sales in the fourth quarter of the year to be slightly higher than in the third quarter. In terms of EBIT, the division anticipates at least breakeven in the fourth quarter.

Daimler Buses expects core markets to stabilize in the fourth quarter. Due to higher vehicle shipments in connection with major orders, unit sales should increase compared to the third quarter. The division continues to anticipate positive EBIT in the fourth quarter.

Daimler Financial Services anticipates rising credit defaults and continued high refinancing expenses in full-year 2009. The division is confident that it will be able to compensate for the increased costs at least partially through its efficiency programs, and expects its operating result to be positive once again in the last quarter of the year.

Overview of the third quarter of 2009

As already disclosed on October 19, 2009, Daimler posted Group EBIT of €470 million in the third quarter of 2009 (Q3 2008: €648 million). Group EBIT had amounted to minus €1,005 million in the second quarter of 2009 and minus €1,426 million in the first.

The development of earnings in the third quarter reflects on the one hand declining unit sales in all vehicle segments. On the other hand, the full availability of the E-Class and the measures taken to improve efficiency had a positive impact on third-quarter earnings. Daimler Financial Services posted a decrease in earnings, primarily due to increased credit risks.

A gain of €48 million was recognized on the valuation of Chrysler-related assets in the third quarter. The plans for the repositioning of the business operations of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation and Daimler Trucks North America led to total charges of €3 million in the reporting period. In connection with the expected increase in annual contributions to the German Pension Protection Association, the Group increased its provisions for contributions by a prorated €59 million.

EBIT for the prior-year quarter was reduced by charges relating to the reassessment of vehicles’ residual values (€449 million) and relating to the equity interest in Chrysler that the Group still held at that time (€351 million). (See the table on page 10 for special items.)

Net profit for the third quarter of 2009 amounted to €56 million (Q3 2008: €213 million). In the second quarter of this year, the Group posted a net loss of €1,062 million. Earnings per share for the third quarter amounted to €0.04 (Q3 2008: €0.21).

Unit sales down by 26% in third quarter

In the third quarter of 2009, Daimler sold 386,500 cars and commercial vehicles worldwide, which is 26% fewer than in the prior-year quarter.

Daimler’s revenue fell to €19.3 billion from €24.5 billion in the third quarter of 2008. Adjusted for exchange-rate effects, revenue fell by 22%.

At the end of the third quarter of 2009, 256,900 people were employed by Daimler worldwide (end of Q3 2008: 275,500). Of that total, 163,500 people were employed in Germany (end of Q3 2008: 168,700).

The free cash flow of the industrial business was positive in the first three quarters despite the difficult economic situation at €2.3 billion (Q1-3 2008: negative €0.3 billion). The main reason for the increase in the free cash flow was the development of inventories, trade receivables and payables, as well as of investments in property, plant and equipment, which offset the negative effects from the divisions’ earnings.

There was also a negative net impact of €0.6 billion from internal payments within the Group received by the industrial business from companies in the financial services business in connection with fiscal unities (cash outflow in prior-year periods). These intercompany payments are related to a settlement with the US tax authorities and are not recognized in profit and loss.

Details of the divisions in the third quarter

In a still-challenging market environment, Mercedes-Benz Cars sold 271,900 vehicles in the third quarter of this year (Q3 2008: 315,800).After the seasonally weaker summer months of July and August, the division achieved its strongest month of the year in September. Compared to the third quarter of last year, revenue decreased by 12% to €10.2 billion.

The division’s EBIT amounted to €355 million, which is significantly higher than the €112 million posted in the prior-year quarter. The earnings improvement primarily reflects the fact that EBIT for the prior-year quarter was reduced by €449 million due to charges relating to the reassessment of leased vehicles’ residual values. The reduction in earnings in the third quarter of 2009 caused by generally lower unit sales was partially offset by the actions taken to optimize business operations, particularly in production and sales, as well as by measures designed to adjust personnel expenses. There were additional positive effects on earnings from the full availability of the new E-Class and a more favorable model mix.

Daimler Truckssold 66,100 units in the third quarter of 2009 (Q3 2008: 122,700). This substantial drop in sales is due to a slump in demand for transport services. Revenue fell from €7.3 billion to €4.4 billion.

The division’s EBIT of minus €127 million was substantially below the very high EBIT for the prior-year period of plus €510 million. This earnings development was primarily the result of lower unit sales. The implementation of efficiency improvements such as the adjustment of personnel expenses had a positive effect on EBIT. The realignment of the business operations of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation resulted in additional charges of €13 million. The adjustment of provisions recognized in connection with the repositioning of Daimler Trucks North America had an opposing effect, leading to a gain of €10 million.

Mercedes-Benz Vans sold 40,100 vehicles in the third quarter, which is significantly better than the average of the first and second quarters (Q3 2008: 73,200). Weak markets continued to affect the division’s business development, however, so it was not possible to equal the record unit sales of the prior-year quarter (Q3 2008: 73,200 units). Revenue fell from €2.4 billion to €1.6 billion.

The division achieved EBIT breakeven (Q3 2008: €212 million). It was unable to escape the general market development, so unit sales fell although market share increased. The resulting charges on earnings were not fully offset by efficiency improvements.

Daimler Busesslightly increased its unit sales compared to the second quarter of this year, but sales of 8,400 buses and chassis were below the high level recorded in the third quarter of last year (Q3 2008: 10,800). Revenue of €1.0 billion was also lower than in the prior-year quarter (€1.2 billion).

The division posted third-quarter EBIT of €23 million, which was below the high prior-year figure of €92 million. In addition to negative currency effects, the division’s earnings decline was primarily caused by the worldwide slump in demand, reflecting the general market development. Demand was significantly weaker than the high level of the prior-year quarter, above all in Mexico and the other markets of Latin America. In Europe, the city bus business continued its stable development, while demand for coaches weakened.

At the end of the third quarter, Daimler Financial Services’ contract volume decreased compared to the end of 2008 by 7% to €58.7 billion. Adjusted for exchange-rate effects, there was also a decrease of 7%. Compared to the third quarter of 2008, new business decreased by 22% to €6.0 billion.

The division posted EBIT of €101 million (Q3 2008: €173 million). The decline in earnings was mainly caused by higher expenses for credit risks, but expenses were also incurred in connection with the expansion of the direct banking business at Mercedes-Benz Bank.

Other business activities, in particular the investments in EADS and Tognum, which are accounted for using the equity method, have been included in the “reconciliation” item since the beginning of the year 2009.

In September, Mercedes-Benz Cars sold 114,300 (September 2008: 122,200) Mercedes-Benz, AMG, smart, and Maybach brand vehicles worldwide (minus seven percent). Mercedes-Benz delivered 104,900 (September 2008: 110,700) passenger vehicles to customers (minus five percent). The smart brand sold 9,400 (September 2008: 11,500) units (minus 18 percent). With these results in September, Mercedes-Benz Cars recorded the highest sales total in any month this year. Contributing to this development were the new E-Class and the new generation S-Class, but also strong growth rates in the Asia/Pacific region, particularly in China, and a stabilization of sales in Western Europe and the United States.

“We observed a positive sales trend in September. And here, the growth rate of the new E-Class played a particularly important role,” says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. Deliveries of the sedan were up 64 percent worldwide, and increased in Western Europe by 95 percent compared to the result posted in September 2008. More than 70,000 units of the new E-Class have been delivered to customers since the market launch, and in September the sedan was once again the best-selling car in its class.

“The new E-Class is outstandingly positioned in its segment,” adds Schmidt. “In Germany it is the market leader by far with a market share of about 60 percent, and in the other Western European countries it has gained a market share of around 40 percent. We intend to continue this success story with the new station wagon, which we presented at the IAA.”

The new generation of the S-Class also will provide positive momentum in the fourth quarter. The sedan was number one in its segment in September. The S 400 HYBRID is especially successful, and is ordered by about 20 percent of the customers.

A look at the markets shows that Mercedes-Benz Cars continued to achieve strong growth rates in the Asia/Pacific region, with an increase of 15 percent, and sold 17,700 (September 2008: 15,400) passenger vehicles in September, a new record. Particularly in China, Mercedes-Benz Cars continues on its successful course. With a new record of 7,000 (September 2008: 4,400) vehicles in September, the division succeeded in increasing sales by 59 percent. Mercedes-Benz is still the fastest-growing premium brand in China. In addition to the new E-Class, the successful launch of the new generation S-Class also contributed to this result: 1,600 units of the luxury sedan were sold, an increase of 12 percent. Mercedes-Benz Cars is also experiencing dynamic growth in South Korea, where deliveries almost doubled to 1,500 vehicles in September, compared to the same month last year.

Mercedes-Benz sales in Germany stabilized in September, with 28,700 (September 2008: 30,300) units delivered to customers (minus six percent). Compared to recent months, Mercedes-Benz succeeded in gaining market shares in September and defended its position as the market leader in the premium segment.

Mercedes-Benz also gained market shares in the United States in September, selling 17,000 (September 2008: 18,800) vehicles (minus ten percent). Mercedes-Benz therefore is the most successful German premium brand. Also contributing to this development, in addition to the new E-Class, was the GLK, which once again was the top-selling vehicle in its class. In Canada, Mercedes-Benz had the best September ever, with record-breaking sales of 2,200 (September 2008: 1,800) passenger vehicles, corresponding to a growth rate of 25 percent.

Daimler AG is reporting today that worldwide sales at its Mercedes-Benz Cars division dropped 13.2 percent in August 2009 to 73,200 new units – this compared to 84,400 new units in August 2008. As a result, sales of the Mercedes-Benz, Maybach and smart brands now total 711,300 new units through the first eight months of the year, a decrease of 17.1 percent.

Individually, sales at Mercedes-Benz were slightly better than that of the group for the month of August, with the luxury brand noting sales of 66,200 new units – a decrease of 12.0 percent. At smart, the picture was somewhat more bleak, with sales of the compact fortwo dropping 23.8 percent to 7,000 new units. Through the first eight months of the year, sales at Mercedes-Benz are off 17.5 percent with 632,700 units sold, while smart sales are off 13.2 percent with 78,600 units sold.

To learn more about sales of Daimler’s Mercedes-Benz Cars division through in August and through the first eight months of the year, keep reading for the official press release.

Mercedes-Benz USA is reporting that for the month of July 2009, sales totaled 16,228 new vehicles – a drop of 21.7 percent when compared to July 2008.  As a result, sales at MBUSA now total 101,316 new vehicles through the first seven months of the year, down 27.6 percent compared to the year prior.

As for the models making headlines, the 2010 Mercedes E-Class took the volume lead in its first month on the market, with the sedan’s sales totaling 5,556 units.  The C-Class and GLK-Class also noted high volume sales, selling 4,450 units and 1,809 units, respectively.

Mercedes has announced today that sales of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class are off to a successful start, with 40,000 units of the new model being delivered to customers since its launch in spring of this year.  This success should continue to build momentum going into the latter half of the year, as the 2010 E-Class is entering a number of key markets (such as the U.S. earlier this month) as well as expanding to include a station wagon (celebrating its world premier at this year’s IAA in September).

According to Dr. Klaus Maier, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars:  “The fact that the E-Class sedan already became the global market leader in May demonstrates how well it is being received by our customers. The new coupe is also extremely popular, thanks to its dynamic design and the new generation of efficient engines. We are very delighted with this positive response because the E-Class has always been of great importance for Mercedes-Benz. It’s an exemplary embodiment of the brand’s basic attributes of safety, comfort, and quality. The new E-Class also sets the standards when it comes to economy in the upper-range segment.”

In case you’re wondering, the new E-Class replaces another remarkably successful model – the W211 E-Class.  In total, about 1.5 million units of the prior E-Class were delivered, helping contribute to the ten million or so E’s that have been sold over the past 60 years.