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Mercedes Ponders Diesel’s Future in U.S.
Daimler AG is certifying a handful of 2017 model diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz vehicles for the American market.
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Daimler AG is certifying a handful of 2017 model diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz vehicles for the American market. But slumping demand for diesels has prompted the company to consider future cutbacks or phasing out diesels entirely in the U.S.
Mercedes is still certifying diesels for its GLS large crossover, GLC and GLE midsize crossovers and C-Class sedan. The process is taking longer than usual because of more stringent test procedures in the wake of Volkswagen AG’s admission in September 2015 that it rigged its diesels to cheat on certification tests.
Matthias Luehrs, who heads sales and product management for the Mercedes-Benz brand in the American market, tells Automotive News no decision has been made. But he suggests the engine’s future is dim unless demand for diesels improves.
That has not been the case so far. Diesel sales, which in recent years averaged roughly 5,000 units per months, plunged to fewer than 800 units in the fourth quarter last year, according to The Wall Street Journal. Demand has continued to evaporate this year.
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