The TRATON GROUP increased its total unit sales by 10% year-over-year to 78,900 vehicles in the third quarter of 2026, according to preliminary figures. This acceleration follows a slow start to the year and a 4% growth in the second quarter, bringing cumulative unit sales for the first nine months of 2026 to 230,400 vehicles, 3% above the prior-year level. The performance underscores the group's ability to capitalize on recovering demand in key markets, particularly the United States.
The primary driver was International Motors, which recorded a 48% year-over-year increase in unit sales to 19,900 vehicles in the third quarter. This more than offset the decline recorded in the first half of 2026, as the US market saw a strong recovery in customer demand. For the first nine months, International's unit sales reached 49,400 vehicles, 3% above the prior-year period. The surge at International highlights the cyclical nature of the North American truck market and TRATON's exposure to it through its International brand.
Scania Vehicles & Services increased its unit sales by 3% in the third quarter to 22,100 vehicles, driven by the ramp-up of production at the new plant in Rugao, China, and the government-supported “Move Brasil” loan program in Brazil. In the first nine months, Scania's unit sales were 69,300 vehicles, 1% above the prior-year period. MAN Truck & Bus recorded a slight decrease of 1% in the third quarter to 24,500 vehicles, as the truck business developed positively while the bus and van business declined. For the first nine months, MAN's unit sales were 75,400 vehicles, 5% above the prior-year level. Volkswagen Truck & Bus (VWTB) recorded a 5% increase in the third quarter to 12,500 vehicles, also benefiting from the Brazilian loan program, though its nine-month sales were 36,300 vehicles, 1% below the prior year due to a weak first quarter.
In the all-electric vehicle segment, TRATON GROUP sales declined 6% in the third quarter to 770 units, but rose 29% in the first nine months to 2,670 units. Scania's electric vehicle sales jumped 55% in the quarter and 69% in the nine-month period, while MAN's electric sales increased 32% and 36%, respectively. International's electric sales fell 72% in the quarter and 8% in the nine-month period, and VWTB's electric sales rose 375% in the quarter but were flat for the nine months. These figures indicate mixed progress in electrification across brands, with Scania and MAN showing strong gains while International lags.
The strong US performance is particularly significant as it suggests a rebound in a market that had been sluggish earlier in the year. For investors and industry observers, the preliminary results signal that TRATON GROUP is gaining momentum, which could positively impact its full-year outlook. The company will publish its 9M 2026 Interim Statement on October 28, 2026, available at https://ir.traton.com/en/publications. More information about the company can be found at www.traton.com.
