Daimler Trucks Chief Sees Continued ‘Risks’ in Emerging Markets

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John Sommers II for TT
Wolfgang Bernhard, head of Daimler AG’s global truck unit, said he does not expect demand for trucks in emerging markets to recover in 2015, Reuters reported.

“In the economically challenging markets, we continue to see risks,” he said in an interview released Dec. 29. “We will not see a jump in demand in Brazil; the risks outweigh the opportunities.”

Bernhard also said he does not believe that short-term changes in fuel prices will alter customers’ buying habits.

Separately, the Stuttgart, Germany-based manufacturer recently said it is increasing its provisions for a possible European Union antitrust fine by 600 million euros ($731 million).

Daimler was among the commercial vehicle makers that received formal EU antitrust complaints in November regarding suspected price fixing after raids by investigators in 2011.



In North America, Daimler builds Freightliner and Western Star trucks and Detroit brand engines and components.