Mercedes-Benz cut its full-year profit margin target for the second time in less than two months, hitting European auto stocks as it joined a growing number of rivals that are blaming a weakening Chinese car market,

Mercedes-Benz Group lowered its full-year outlook, a move it said was triggered by the further deterioration of the macroeconomic environment, specifically in China.The German luxury car brand on Thursday said its cars unit is now expected to post an adjusted return on sales between 7.

Mercedes-Benz Group shares fell 8% on Friday after the German carmaker made another cut to its full-year guidance, citing a slowdown in car sales caused by a slump in China’s economy. The Stuttgart company said the cut to its outlook,

Chinese automaker BYD Co. has moved to fully control a joint venture it had in China with Mercedes-Benz Group AG, as an increasing number of foreign carmakers dial back their exposure to the world’s biggest auto market.

Mercedes-Benz Group cut its financial forecast for the year due to a rapid deterioration of its business in China -- the company's biggest market. The Chinese market has cooled further, hurting sales of Mercedes' most expensive models like the S-Class and Maybach sedans.