Benz, gaining complete control of the Denza brand amid rising trade tensions. The partnership lasted 13 years, ending as Mercedes reduced its stake due to poor sales while Denza’s new models gained popularity.

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 has officially ended its 13-year partnership with Chinese automaker BYD, marking the close of an era in their joint venture, Denza. The collaboration, which began in 2011, was initially created to produce affordable vehicles for the Chinese market.