Mercedes-Benz celebrates 140 years of innovation this year

140 years of innovation! And the brand has remained completely faithful to its core values ​​ever since: In 1886, Carl Benz registered the patent for the world’s first automobile, the Motorwagen. Since then, Mercedes-Benz has been shaping the future of mobility in terms of technology, design, digitalization and customer experience: this is a story of success, innovation and courage!

The strategy presented at the press event in Budapest focuses on clearly defined goals: further increasing sales, strengthening the position achieved in the Top-End Vehicle segment, increasing the share of models with electrified drivetrains (xEV), all while maintaining the core values ​​of Mercedes-Benz – premium quality, safety, comfort and driving pleasure.

The domestic sales figures are in line with the Group’s strategy: in 2025, passenger car sales increased by 8.7% compared to the previous business year, and sales revenue increased by 11% from 2024 to 2025. Every third vehicle sold belongs to the Top-End Vehicle segment, and AMG sales account for 20% of TEV. Fully electric models accounted for 9.1% of total sales.

“The strategy of a premium car manufacturer seems simple: a compelling brand, an attractive product range and the highest level of customer experience – this is what Mercedes-Benz has stood for for 140 years,” said Fabiola Attorri, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Hungária, when introducing the brand’s new slogan ‘WELCOME HOME’. “This is what we promise all our customers, at every point of contact with our brand. Whether they get into a CLA, GLC or S-Class, it doesn’t matter. Every detail immediately sends a clear message: this is Mercedes-Benz. The place where everyone can feel safe, calm and confident. This is the result of almost 140 years of innovation.”

Mercedes-Benz AG’s medium-term strategic plans include further growth in the Top-End segment and an even greater share of electrified models in addition to sales of ~2 million units, all supported by a comprehensive and all-encompassing product portfolio that meets all customer needs.

From entry-level models, through the core segment to the Top-End range, including sub-brands such as Mercedes-Maybach, Mercedes-AMG or the G-Class, Mercedes-Benz offers advanced internal combustion and fully electric drivetrains, allowing customers to choose the technology that best suits their needs and lifestyle.

Models presented on site: internal combustion engine CLA, the new GLC and the GLB produced in Kecskemét

The Hungarian press event highlighted Mercedes-Benz’s belief in developing a broad product range.

“The renewal also affects the design language, the digital experience and the efficiency. The goal is that customers get the same experience, regardless of the powertrain: premium quality and modern, intuitive handling”

– emphasized Fabiola Attorri.

The guests were able to see some of the first new models of the renewed portfolio in person.

Special emphasis was placed on the new, fully electric GLB, which recently celebrated the start of production on the assembly line of the Kecskemét plant. The domestically produced model is made with Mercedes-Benz’s most advanced production technology, symbolizing how deeply the German brand has become embedded in the Hungarian economy.

The all-new, electric CLA, the proud winner of the 2026 Car of the Year award, has become the new reference point in the premium compact segment. The iconic lines, the digital, premium interior and the MB.OS on-board operating system are all keys to success. The CLA version with an internal combustion engine was first introduced here, and the Shooting Brake body version will be introduced to the market in the coming months, gradually for both powertrains.