Which brands has Mercedes-Benz acquired?
2 Answers
Mercedes-Benz has acquired the following brands: Maybach, AMG, Mercedes-Benz, SMART, and Dodge. Taking the Mercedes-Maybach S450 as an example, it is a large 4-door 5-seater sedan with body dimensions of 5466mm in length, 1899mm in width, 1500mm in height, and a wheelbase of 3365mm. The Mercedes-Maybach S450 is equipped with a 3.0T twin-turbocharged engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission, delivering a maximum power of 270 kW and a maximum power speed of 5500 to 6100 rpm. It features a front-engine four-wheel-drive layout and utilizes double-wishbone independent suspension for both front and rear axles.
I often browse through automotive historical materials, and Mercedes-Benz's acquisition journey is quite fascinating. They don't just sell their own cars but have also collected some prestigious brands. For example, in 1997, they acquired Maybach, a traditional German luxury car brand, which was revived to focus on top-tier luxury, like the S-Class but even more high-end. Going further back, in 1998, they collaborated with Swatch to create Smart, specializing in micro urban cars, and later Mercedes took full control. Now, although they partner with Geely, the brand remains under their umbrella. As for AMG, it started in 1967, and Mercedes acquired and integrated it in the 90s to form their high-performance division, focusing on tuning and racing-inspired models. These moves showcase Mercedes' ambition: expanding their portfolio through acquisitions to stay competitive in the industry. AMG appeals to younger enthusiasts, Maybach attracts the wealthy elite, and Smart follows an eco-friendly approach. In short, the Mercedes family includes AMG, Maybach, Smart, and others, all aimed at diversifying their product lineup. The revival stories of these heritage brands truly highlight Mercedes' strategic vision.
