Up until now, the year 2020 has been nothing short of disastrous for economies across the globe. The automobile industry, which makes for a massive chunk of GDP (Gross Domestic Product) for several nations on earth, was one of the worst-hit. The same holds for India too, where there was no market action for two months. However, things have started gaining traction slowly, and the destroyed consumer sentiment is steadily showing signs of recovery.

Mercedes-Benz, the largest luxury carmaker in India, reported that during the first six months of 2020, it sold 2,948 units. Simple math reveals that the German brand managed a monthly average sales of less than 500 units. Four hundred ninety-one to be precise. That number is way off the company’s general performance. And yet, Mercedes-Benz is hoping for a better second half of the year and has witnessed positive momentum in June 2020.

Last month, SUVs accounted for 57 per cent of the total sales for the brand. Out the lot, the new GLS comprised of 22 per cent. Volume driving products, such as the C-Class, E-Class and the GLC remained in demand as well. Mercedes-Benz says that its half-yearly performance could have been better. In addition to no activity for weeks, running out of BSIV-compliant (Bharat Stage 4) stock during the BS6 transition period hampered the sales.

Just like most other major players in the country, Mercedes-Benz India introduced an online car buying platform and an array of customised financial solutions. With people predictably hesitant about stepping out for shopping purposes, carmakers now rely on digitalisation of services and products more than ever before. And Mercedes-Benz says that from April-June 2020, it received more than 8,000 leads from its online sales platform.

To boost the entry-level portfolio, Mercedes-Benz India will soon launch the new GLA and the A-Class Limousine. Apart from those, the carmaker will also introduce the EQC EV.

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