On January 3, 2021, the German automotive company Daimler, released a statement that it plans to separate Daimler Trucks from Mercedes-Benz. This was decided upon in order for investors to focus on the luxury car brand for it to better compete against the likes of Tesla.
In turn, Daimler Trucks will continue to face off its age-old rivals in the European commercial vehicle market. Its list of competitors includes Volkswagen’s Traton and Paccar Inc. (Peterbilt, Kenworth), and AB Volvo (Volvo Trucks).
Under Daimler Trucks are Mercedes-Benz Trucks, Frieghtliner, Fuso, Western Star, Thomas, and Bharatbenz
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As mentioned by Daimler chairman Ola Källenius, this is a historic moment for the German marque. He further added that both Daimler Truck and Mercedes-Benz, once separated, can perform more efficiently in the context of the changes that the automotive industry is facing.
Källenius further added that for Mercedes-Benz a “pure luxury car company is even more attractive to investors.” In turn, Daimler Trucks will also attract its own investors. These two, after all, are different businesses. For those unaware, Daimler Trucks focuses on medium to large trucks, cargo vans, and other commercial vehicles.
There’s also the point that whether we like it or not, trucks will be the last to adopt new automotive technologies like electric power. As such, Mercedes-Benz as a car brand that intends to be at the forefront of green mobility, might not want to be associated with Daimler Trucks in the long run.
The hydrogen powered GenH2 Truck concept
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Make no mistake though, Daimler Trucks also has its own zero-emissions strategy, but it is totally different from Mercedes-Benz. Commercial vehicle makers are focusing on hydrogen fuel cell technology, while most passenger car companies are turning towards batteries.
Do note though that Daimler Trucks and Mercedes-Benz have been together for a couple of decades as Daimler-Benz. This started in 1926 when Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft and Benz & Cie. merged together into one entity. If the decision to separate is carried out once and for all, then each will adopt their respective names as corporate entities.
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