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2026 Motor Vehicle Modernization Act Bars Mercedes, Exemption Sought

6/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

The 2026 Motor Vehicle Modernization Act would bar firms with >=15% ownership by “foreign” governments from U.S. vehicle sales, endangering Mercedes-Benz.
With ownership at about 20%—BAIC 9.98% and Geely founder Li Shufu 9.69%—the ban would erase 300,000 U.S. sales from last year for Mercedes-Benz.
Having cleared a committee in May 2026, the bill awaits Senate approval while Mercedes, citing its U.S. plants, 10,000+ workers, and a Volvo waiver, seeks an exemption.

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Story summary

The 2026 Motor Vehicle Modernization Act would bar firms with >=15% ownership by “foreign” governments from U.S. vehicle sales, endangering Mercedes-Benz.
With ownership at about 20%—BAIC 9.98% and Geely founder Li Shufu 9.69%—the ban would erase 300,000 U.S. sales from last year for Mercedes-Benz.
Having cleared a committee in May 2026, the bill awaits Senate approval while Mercedes, citing its U.S. plants, 10,000+ workers, and a Volvo waiver, seeks an exemption.