Daimler

Mercedes-Benz Vans is engineering an all-new platform to underpin its next-generation eSprinter models, according to parent company Daimler. Known as the Electric Versatility Platform (EVP), the modular architecture will reportedly be compatible with three battery sizes and a wide spate of body configurations. Power and range specifications are yet to be announced, however the manufacturer has confirmed all variants will be rear-wheel drive.

Daimler, owner of Mercedes-Benz, has confirmed it will cut at least 10,000 jobs between now and the end of 2022. The jobs cuts will be achieved via voluntary severance packages, an expended part-time retirement program, and 'very restrictively' extended temporary workers' contracts. It will also offer shorter working weeks in order to rein in employment costs. Under its current union agreement in Germany, the automaker is prevented from making forced redundancies until 2029.

Daimler, parent company of Mercedes-Benz, has been fined €870 million ($1.4 billion) by German authorities for selling vehicles which did not fully comply with regulations regarding oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions. It's understood roughly 684,000 diesel vehicles sold in Germany were not compliant with emissions regulations.

Mercedes-Benz has outlined its display for the 2019 Shanghai motor show, which kicks off on April 16. Two vehicles will headline the Mercedes stand, one being the Concept GLB which previews the all-new GLB SUV, the other being the long-wheelbase version of the Mercedes-AMG A35 Sedan which will be exclusive to the Chinese market.

Three sources have told The Financial Times Daimler, owner of Mercedes-Benz, is close to selling a 50 per cent stake in the Smart brand to Chinese automaker Geely. A deal could be announced as soon as the Shanghai motor show, which takes place in the middle of April. If the sale goes ahead, it would fit both Smart's future vision for itself and Geely's acquisitive streak.