Beijing, 25th March 2025 – In 2024, Mercedes-Benz marked a significant achievement, delivering over 710,000 vehicles to customers in China. Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its presence further. By mid-2026, Beijing Benz will introduce the long-wheelbase GLE SUV, followed by an all-electric luxury MPV from Fujian Benz. Additionally, Mercedes-Benz aims to launch seven new models specifically designed for the Chinese market by 2027.
To support its growth in China, Mercedes-Benz is strengthening its research and development (R&D) efforts. The company is creating a dual-engine R&D framework in Beijing and Shanghai, backed by a team of more than 2,000 experts. This development has made China’s R&D network the largest and most powerful outside of Germany. With the expansion of the Shanghai R&D center in 2024, the Chinese team is now leading several global projects.
In 2024, Mercedes-Benz plans to invest 9.7 billion euros in global R&D. The Chinese division is focusing on advanced technologies, including intelligent connectivity, autonomous driving, software and hardware development, and big data. These innovations are driving digital advancements at Mercedes-Benz. One notable achievement is the MB.OS architecture, which has received major contributions from the Shanghai team. This system is integral to the development of smart cockpit features and intelligent driving capabilities. The upcoming all-electric long-wheelbase CLA will feature an AI-powered MBUX virtual assistant and a cutting-edge intelligent driving system, both developed by the Chinese R&D team.
Mercedes-Benz is also deepening partnerships with leading Chinese tech companies, including Tencent, Volcengine, Amap, and iFlytek. Additionally, the company is collaborating with prestigious institutions such as Tsinghua University to further research sustainable transportation. By tapping into China’s innovation ecosystem, Mercedes-Benz aims to expand its cooperation in areas like electrification, digitalization, and sustainable mobility. This will enable the brand to introduce a diverse range of products that meet the evolving needs of Chinese consumers.
