Mercedes-Benz Pune Plant Assembles Maybach GLS: India's Global Role Expands

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AuthorRiya Kapoor|Published at:
Mercedes-Benz Pune Plant Assembles Maybach GLS: India's Global Role Expands
Overview

Mercedes-Benz India has commenced local Maybach GLS production in Pune, making India the first nation outside the U.S. to assemble the ultra-luxury SUV. This strategic move, driven by strong domestic demand, aims to shorten delivery times and enhance customer access. The company also launched new 'Celebration Edition' models, underscoring India's growing importance in Mercedes-Benz's global strategy.

Manufacturing Expansion and Market Strategy

Mercedes-Benz India has commenced local production of the ultra-luxury Mercedes-Maybach GLS at its Pune facility. This development positions India as the sole manufacturing hub for the Maybach GLS outside the United States, a move driven by surging domestic demand for top-tier luxury vehicles.

New Luxury Editions Unveiled

To commemorate this milestone and acknowledge strong market response, the company also introduced the Mercedes-Maybach GLS ‘Celebration Edition,’ priced at ₹4.10 crore. The EQS SUV also received ‘Celebration Edition’ variants, with the five-seater costing ₹1.34 crore and the seven-seater ₹1.48 crore.

Strategic Rationale

Localizing production is expected to significantly improve delivery timelines and customer access to Mercedes-Benz's most exclusive offerings. The Maybach GLS, since its India debut in June 2021, has been a consistent high-demand aspirational product, previously imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU).

Future Outlook

Mercedes-Benz India plans an aggressive product strategy for 2026, unveiling 12 new vehicles, including new models, facelifts, and battery electric vehicles (BEVs), with a focus on top-end segments. The company will also bolster its retail network by adding 15 new luxury touchpoints and upgrading existing ones.

2025 Performance Snapshot

The company reported its best-ever revenue year in 2025, selling 19,007 cars. The top-end vehicle segment saw 11% year-on-year growth, while BEVs grew 12%, comprising 20% of top-end sales. The AMG portfolio surged 34%.

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