Mercedes 2002 Annual Report Download - page 10

4|Chairman’s Letter
– On a global scale, DaimlerChrysler is the automotive company with the best-balanced regional
structure, covering every important market. In the Triad markets – USA, Western Europe and
Japan – we suffer from stagnation and increasing competition.
For this reason we have opened new and important opportunities in South East Asia, the
location for the most dynamic future growth in world markets. Our participation in Fuso will
further strengthen our position in Japan. The joint venture with Hyundai Motor Company
provides us with access to the Korean commercial vehicle market and – by taking advantage of
low cost structures in Korea – we will be able to serve markets we had previously to ignore.
At present, China is of special importance to us. It is undoubtedly a market with tremendous
prospects, and one in which DaimlerChrysler will further strengthen its mid-term competitive
position.
– Our brands are distinctively positioned and combine to present the most powerful portfolio in
our industry. No other manufacturer offers such an attractive variety at comparable production
volumes.
We will continuously develop this range further. Recent examples are the reintroduction of
Maybach and the product extension at smart. At DaimlerChrysler, such decisions are governed
by the strictest multi-brand management approach: company-wide exchange of best practice
while always safe-guarding the extraordinary uniqueness of all of our brands.
– Our customers’ needs are the engine that drives our product development. Today we offer
virtually any customer a vehicle tailored to his or her requirements. It is clear, however, that the
needs and wishes of customers will in future become even more varied. In order to meet this
demand, we will launch more than 40 attractive new models over the next three years. The new
Mercedes-Benz E-Class station wagon, the Mercedes McLaren SLR, the smart forfour, the
Chrysler Crossfire and the Chrysler Pacifica, the Dodge LX, the Mercedes-Benz Accelo truck,
and the new Mercedes-Benz Vito are but a few. Our partner Mitsubishi Motors expects to
launch twelve new vehicles between 2002 and 2007.
– On top of this, we enjoy our industry’s lead position in technology and innovation – a place we
have occupied since the invention of the automobile more than a century ago. Our aim is to
continue to provide customers with cutting-edge innovations that have clear and recognizable
value.
For example, DaimlerChrysler follows with dedication its vision of accident-free driving.
By combining active and passive safety features, the car of the future should be able to predict
a possible accident and to support the driver’s reaction if necessary.
Furthermore, DaimlerChrysler is accelerating its efforts in the research and development of
engines using alternative fuels. We are the company developing both methanol and hydrogen
technology. That means that we are very well prepared for varying environmental scenarios.