Mercedes-Benz Group AG

Lobbying Transparency and Governance

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Direct Lobbying Transparency
Overall Assessment Comment Score
Comprehensive Mercedes-Benz Group AG has demonstrated a comprehensive level of transparency in disclosing its climate lobbying activities. The company explicitly names specific climate policies it has engaged with, such as the "EU7 emissions standard," the "EU Green Deal," the "Fit for 55" legislative initiatives, the "Renewable Energy Directive (RED)," and the "California CARB Advanced Clean Car and Regulation." It also highlights its advocacy for "COâ'' pricing mechanisms," "fleet regulations," and the "EU Taxonomy - Sustainable Finance." These disclosures provide clear and identifiable details about the policies and regulations the company is lobbying. Mercedes-Benz provides detailed information on its lobbying mechanisms and target entities. It describes direct engagement with policymakers, such as participation in the 'Concerted Activity Mobility' summit with the German Chancellery, discussions with EU Commissioner Frans Timmermans, and plant tours for policymakers like Jan Huitema, a member of the European Parliament. The company also engages in indirect lobbying through trade associations like ACEA and VDA and participates in public consultations, such as those on the EU Taxonomy criteria. Specific targets of its lobbying efforts include the "EPA," "CARB," "EU Commission," and "CATARC" in China. These disclosures clearly outline both the mechanisms and the specific targets of its lobbying efforts. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz has been transparent about the specific policy outcomes it seeks. The company advocates for "effective COâ'' targets for new vehicle fleets," "ambitious mandatory targets for charging points and hydrogen stations," and "a high enough carbon price to create steering effects regarding investments in climate-neutral technologies." It also supports the revision of the Renewable Energy Directive to include more ambitious targets for renewable fuels and emphasizes the need for sufficient charging infrastructure and clean energy to ensure the success of electric mobility. These statements clearly articulate the legislative and regulatory changes the company aims to achieve, demonstrating a high level of transparency in its lobbying efforts. 4
Lobbying Governance
Overall Assessment Comment Score
Comprehensive Mercedes-Benz demonstrates a comprehensive governance approach to climate lobbying, as shown by its statement that its "strategy for representing our political interests is always aligned with our sustainable corporate strategy," supported by "internally binding requirements" set out in a globally valid policy and the Group's Integrity Code. The company has established a central coordinating body, the External Affairs and Public Policy unit, which "falls under responsibility of the Chairman of the Board of Management" and operates through "a global network with offices in Berlin, Brussels, Beijing and Washington," thereby overseeing and aligning both direct and indirect lobbying activities. The Head of External Affairs is "a permanent member of the Group Sustainability Board," ensuring high-level accountability and integrating lobbying policy with overall climate objectives. Mercedes-Benz likewise publishes a "transparent Climate Policy Report," whose "results of our review of positions regarding the Paris Climate Goals" indicate a thorough audit of industry associations and lobbying alignment, supported by clear monitoring measures and responsible oversight. This indicates a comprehensive governance process that ensures robust accountability and alignment of lobbying with the company's climate goals. 4