Top 5 Largest Automotive Producing Nations in the World

Cars have become a necessity for many people and are now manufactured by a large number of nations. This infographic takes a look at the top 5 largest automotive producing nations in the world.

Mexico is not well known for its own car brands but they still manage to attract a number of foreign companies to set up shop there. Their best production year was in 2013 when they produced just under 4 million vehicles.

1. China

In just over a decade China has passed America to become the world’s biggest car-producing nation. This impressive feat has come from a combination of social economic growth, private welfare, central policy, and the high attractiveness of foreign brands in China.

The top domestic manufacturers include SAIC Motor Corporation, Dongfeng Motor, FAW, Changan, Geely and Jianghuai. There are also joint ventures with international companies such as Volkswagen, Honda and Toyota.

China is also the world’s leading car exporter. In the first three months of 2023, exports jumped by 58 percent to reach 1.07 million vehicles. The United States and Japan are a close second and third respectively. Germany is a strong fourth. However, India is a real up-and-comer in the automotive market and could soon pass both Germany and Japan to become the fourth largest producer.

2. United States

When it comes to cars and trucks, the United States is by far the biggest automotive producing nation in the world. It has been that way since the tail end of the 19th century when GM, Ford and Chrysler made the American auto industry the most dominant in the world.

South Korea is another heavy hitter in the automotive industry with brands like Hyundai and Kia. Its best production year came in 2013 when it managed to produce just over 4 million motor vehicles.

Mexico is also a major player in the automotive industry, thanks to brands like Nissan and Honda. The country has been seeing its production numbers rise and it could overtake France and Germany one day. ING Groep predicts that global car sales will continue to grow in 2023.

3. Japan

Japan is a leading automotive producer as its top brands like Toyota, Honda and Nissan dominate the global market. It is also one of the first countries to make transportation services as a service (MaaS) popular, where riders use a platform to book rides in vehicles owned by companies or individuals rather than owning their own cars.

Despite being behind China in production, Japan is the number three largest car exporter. Its exports jumped by 58 percent in the first quarter of 2023.

South Africa doesn’t have a car manufacturer of its own, but it is an important manufacturing hub for international companies like GM and Ford. The country also hosts plants for Mercedes, BMW and Volvo. It is a top choice for companies looking to tap into the lucrative African car market.

4. Germany

Germany, home to iconic car brands like Volkswagen and Mercedes Benz, is the world’s fourth largest motor vehicle producing nation. Though production peaked back in 2007 with 5.2 million vehicles produced, Germany’s automotive industry still remains one of the best in the world.

South America makes an appearance as Mexico comes in sixth place in terms of global car production. Despite not having their own domestic auto brand, Mexico attracts many major global automakers due to their low labor costs.

France is another notable name to make the list and a top car producer in Europe. The country is known for both its domestic brands like Peugeot, Renault and Citroen as well as global manufacturers like Ford, VW and PSA Group.

5. India

Despite its relatively small population, India produces more cars than any other nation on the planet. It is a top global producer of both commercial vehicles and passenger cars, and it is also home to companies that make components for the automotive industry.

The country’s auto production industry contributes to regional economic development by generating jobs and attracting investments in the areas of component manufacturing, transportation infrastructure, and housing. In addition, it is a major exporter of automobiles and automotive components. While it may be tempting to compare the production of motor vehicles in different countries, one needs to remember that it is not a one-to-one comparison. The type of vehicle produced in one country is often based on local tastes, roads, and driving conditions.