
Morgan Stanley expects 2026 sales for truckmakers to remain weak, especially in North America
But adds improving freight rates, easing tariff uncertainty, EPA 2027 clarity, and long-term nearshoring tailwinds could potentially align throughout the year and mark start of cyclical recovery into 2027
Remains cautious on near-term 2026 recovery in North America; expects South America to stay flat; sees modest improvement potential in Europe
Daimler Truck DTGGe.DE ("overweight") is broker's top pick thanks to strong exposure to North America, self-help actions reducing European cost base, and margin safety created by attractive shareholder return strategy
Cuts Volvo VOLVb.ST to "equal-weight" from "overweight", awaiting better entry points after recent rally
Cuts Traton 8TRA.DE to "underweight" from "equal-weight", expecting impact from ramp-up of China factory and margin pressure from S232 tariffs for international business unit