Mercedes Sees New Models, Solid Orders Countering China Drag

Mercedes-Benz Group AG expects a stronger second half of the year on the back of new models and strong orders, after earnings were hit by weaker demand in China.

The German automaker pointed to improving performance in the coming months after its carmaking margin fell to 4.1% in the first quarter from 7.3% a year earlier. The decline was less severe than some analysts had forecast, with returns around the midpoint of its annual target.