DCT pushes new Mercedes-Benz models for higher market share

This article was published by the Taiwan Headlines on March 28, 2006. It reports that DaimlerChrysler Taiwan recently introduced three new Mercedes-Benz limousine models, as it tries to regain its position as the No.1 imported luxury card brand in Taiwan. The company also plans to pour more than NT$100 million (US$3.08 million) into restructuring its distribution channels in Taiwan in order to fight back against Lexus, its major rival.

DaimlerChrysler Taiwan aims to sell at least 5,000 new Mercedes-Benz in Taiwan in 2006. This is despite the fact that two major imported luxury car brands, Lexus and BMW, are also actively preparing to defend their leading positions. The local agents of both imported car brands plan to import new models while continuing to promote their current products in 2006.

DaimlerChrysler Taiwan tries to win a higher market share with its new Mercedes-Benz R-class SUVs (sport utility vehicles). According to the company, Taiwan's domestic luxury imported-car market has been dominated by a SUV fever for at least three years, and the R-class models are expected to boost DaimlerChrysler's sales significantly.

Meanwhile, in the past few months, DaimlerChrysler Taiwan also introduced the Mercedes-Benz B-class hatchback, S-class limousine, and ML-class SUV models. So far the market has responded well. The company aims to achieve an annual revenue of NT$15 billion (US$461.5 million) by selling 5,000 units of these models in 2006.