Daimler Truck: strong results in 2025 and a recovery expected in 2026
The heavy-duty truck manufacturer, a leader across several strategic markets, is relying on growing order momentum and efficiency programs to approach the coming year with greater optimism.
Solid results despite a challenging market
In 2025, Daimler Truck delivered 422,510 trucks and buses worldwide, representing a decline of 8% compared to the previous year. This decrease is mainly due to a slowdown in key markets and a more uncertain economic environment.
Industrial revenue reached €45.9 billion, down from €50.7 billion in 2024. Despite this contraction, the group highlights the resilience of its performance, supported by several strong divisions.
- In North America, Trucks North America maintained strong profitability despite weaker demand and tariff-related pressures.
- In Europe, Mercedes-Benz Trucks sustained solid profitability, driven by increased sales and the Cost Down Europe efficiency program.
- The Trucks Asia segment also performed well, particularly thanks to sales in Indonesia and the Middle East.
Electric momentum continues
Another positive signal: battery-electric vehicle sales continue to grow rapidly.
In 2025, Daimler Truck sold 6,726 electric trucks and buses, a 67% increase compared to 2024. In Europe, the group claims a 35% market share in the medium and heavy electric truck segment.
Models such as the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600, designed for long-distance transport, and the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro continue to strengthen the group’s position in zero-emission mobility.
Orders on the rise
Despite a more complex market environment, Daimler Truck is seeing early signs of recovery.
Orders increased by 2% in 2025, reaching 425,458 units. Momentum accelerated significantly in the fourth quarter, with a 13% increase in orders, driven in particular by Mercedes-Benz Trucks and a rebound in North America.
According to management, this trend could signal a stronger second half of 2026, already supported by positive results in France.
A global industrial strategy
At the same time, Daimler Truck continues to invest and expand across key regions:
- In North America, production of the Freightliner Cascadia (fifth generation) has started — still the best-selling Class 8 truck.
- In Latin America, a new generation of the Mercedes-Benz Axor has been launched, capable of hauling up to 68 tonnes.
- In India, BharatBenz has expanded its lineup with new models for construction and mining.
Defense and new industrial alliances
The group is also strengthening its position in the defense sector. It has secured a major contract for 7,000 military trucks, including the Mercedes-Benz Zetros, for the French Army.
In parallel, a strategic partnership has been signed with Toyota, aiming to combine Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino Motors into a new holding company called ARCHION, based in Tokyo.
This structure is expected to create a major heavy-duty player in Asia, while generating significant industrial synergies.
Cautious but positive outlook for 2026
For 2026, Daimler Truck anticipates operational improvement, driven by higher volumes and efficiency gains.
- North American heavy truck market: 250,000 to 290,000 units
- European market: 290,000 to 330,000 units
- Group sales: 330,000 to 360,000 units
- Expected cash flow: €2.7 to €3.2 billion
For CEO Karin Rådström, the 2025 results confirm the group’s strength:
“We improved our operational performance in a challenging environment while continuing our industrial transformation.”
In a transport sector undergoing rapid technological change, Daimler Truck continues to move forward on two key fronts: electrification and industrial efficiency, while maintaining its leadership across several global markets.
