Mercedes-Benz During the Pandemic
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Just like the rest of the U.S. economy, the auto industry has plummeted. About a month ago Mercedes-Benz announced that they will temporarily halt all production at their Vance plant located in Tuscaloosa County and their Mercedes-Benz LLC, Charleston location until further notice. The Charleston facility employs just under 2,000 people but due to company policy, they have not released the health status of any of their employees. Officials said that there will be a “step-by-step disinfection of the entire” North Charleston facility. Similarly, Daimler announced plant closures in various European nations that are already in the grip of the pandemic.
In an announcement Mercedes-Benz said that, “wherever essential work is necessary, the company will continue operations in coordination with the respective authorities.” Decisions are based on the recommendations of international, national, and local authorities. Mercedes-Benz also stated that, “all appropriate precautions to prevent the infection of its employees will be taken.” Daimler officials have said that full operations will resume when the coronavirus situation improves.
Last month, Mercedes-Benz U.S.A decided to still guarantee margin and performance bonuses for the first half of the year despite the continuing sales slump. Dealers will be given a base payout per vehicle sold even without hitting the sales quota.
For customers, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services (MBFS) is considering the postponement of principal payments related to real estate and capital loans for up to 90 days. Customer payments might be deferred for up to 90 days on a case-by-case basis.
There is no doubt that things are slow right now. However, if we all take the necessary precautions and, like Mercedes-Benz, listen to international, national, and local authorities we will flatten the curve and hopefully be up and running in the near future. For more information on what Mercedes-Benz is doing during the pandemic, stay updated here on our blog.