BMW’s EV Sales Help Soften First-Quarter Earnings Decline (3)

BMW AG’s earnings declined less than expected in the first quarter as surging electric-vehicle sales in Europe helped offset continued weakness in China.

BMW’s carmaking margin was 6.9%, at the top end of its guidance range and beating analysts expectations. The German manufacturer confirmed its full-year guidance, saying it expects tariff headwinds to decrease from July.

Shares rose as much as 4.2% in Frankfurt. The stock is still down roughly a quarter over the past year.

BMW is faring better than rivals Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Volkswagen AG in the transition to battery-powered cars, seeing first-quarter sales rise 32% ...