Sales of the S-Class, including AMG and Maybach versions, fell by nearly 37% in the first quarter of 2024, with only 16,900 units sold. The second quarter didn't look much better. When combined with the EQS, EQS SUV, and GLS models, sales were down almost 23%, totaling 33,400 units, Automotive News reports.
These numbers have led Mercedes to make changes at Factory 56 in Sindelfingen. The plant will move to a single shift after the August vacation. For months, the assembly plant hasn't been used to its full capacity. Some workers will be given other jobs at the plant.
The impact of this decision is significant. One supplier called it a "catastrophe" for interior component makers.
The S-Class has long been seen as the pinnacle of automotive luxury. The same plant also makes the EQS, Mercedes' fully electric flagship sedan.
While Mercedes struggles, its rivals are having mixed results. In the first half of 2024, BMW saw an 11.4% increase in sales of its 7 Series and 8 Series models, selling 30,249 units. Audi, on the other hand, saw a 16.5% drop in its D-segment cars, selling only 8,487 units and producing 46% fewer cars at 5,788 units.
Mercedes isn't giving up on the S-Class, though. CEO Ola Källenius has said the company will invest heavily in a mid-cycle update, spending "a lot more" than usual for a facelift. The company has also relaxed its ambitious electric vehicle goals and will put more money into combustion engines.
The S-Class still has a unique selling point. It's the only German large sedan that still offers a twelve-cylinder engine, but only in the Maybach variant.
Mercedes has made other changes to its lineup in recent years. The S-Class Coupe and Convertible were discontinued, with the new 2+2 GT Coupe and SL duo indirectly taking their place.
Source: Automotive News
