“Despite the global economic crisis, markets for buses over eight tons GVW expanded worldwide, with high growth rates posted particularly in Mexico and in Central and Eastern Europe. And growth also was realized again on the markets in Western Europe and North America,” Mercedes said in a statement.
Daimler Trucks sold a total of 472,100 light, medium and heavy-duty trucks worldwide, which represents an increase of one percent compared to the year before. This means Mercedes' truck division remains the world's largest manufacturer of medium and heavy-duty trucks, the company stated.
On the other hand, Mercedes-Benz Trucks sold no less than 170,100 vehicles worldwide, which means the division achieved the best result in its history, despite the global economic downturn. The largest markets were Middle East (+90 percent to 11,300 vehicles) and Latin America (+14 percent to 43,400 vehicles).
Daimler Buses also sold pretty well in 2008, with the division delivering a total of 40,600 buses of the Mercedes-Benz, Setra, and Orion brands worldwide, an increase of four percent versus 2007, when Daimler Buses set the initial sales record.
“Our buses had an absolute record year in 2008, with Daimler Buses achieving its best sales result ever,” said Renschler. “With a market share of 15 percent, we lead the global market for buses over eight tons GVW. We are particularly delighted that the global financial and economic crisis did not prevent us from defending our market leadership in key markets such as Germany and Turkey, as well as in Mexico and Latin America.” Daimler Buses is also the world market leader when it comes to buses with hybrid drive, and around 1,700 Orion hybrid buses are currently on the road in North America.
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