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German Carmakers Stumble in Q3 as Mercedes Profit Falls and VW Swings to Loss

Rising trade barriers are squeezing margins across Germany's auto industry.

Overview

  • Mercedes-Benz reported Q3 net profit of about €1.2 billion, down roughly 30% year over year, with adjusted EBIT at €2.1 billion and deliveries off 12% to 525,300 vehicles.
  • Despite the slump, Mercedes kept its full-year guidance and unveiled a €2 billion share buyback as restructuring costs of €876 million in the quarter reflect a savings plan targeting about €5 billion by 2027.
  • Volkswagen posted a Q3 after-tax loss of €1.072 billion, driven by €7.5 billion of special charges, including roughly €4.7 billion tied to Porsche strategy adjustments and impairments.
  • VW said its pared 2025 outlook stands on sufficient semiconductor supply, while the sector races to secure alternatives after warnings of potential shortfalls linked to supplier Nexperia.
  • US import tariffs raised this year have weighed heavily on earnings, with VW estimating up to a €5 billion impact in 2025, as German brands also face tougher competition and softer demand in China.