Autos Drive America’s latest Economic Impact Report shows that international automakers are continuing to strengthen America’s manufacturing sector. For the second year in a row, international automakers outpaced the Detroit-3 in U.S. production, assembling 4.9 million light vehicles in 2024 versus the Detroit-3’s 4.6 million.
This production milestone is the result of decades of investment in American workers, facilities, and communities. Since the 1960s, international automakers have invested more than $124 billion in their U.S. operations. Today, they operate 31 manufacturing facilities across the country, directly employing more than 162,000 Americans, including over 100,000 in manufacturing roles alone.
These are high-quality jobs that provide stability and opportunity for workers and their families across the country. From manufacturing plants and supplier networks to dealerships and ports, international automakers support nearly 2.4 million American jobs through direct and indirect employment. In 2024 alone, they paid $195 billion in wages and benefits—income that helps families buy homes, save for college, and invest in their futures.
Beyond the household level, these jobs fuel local economies, particularly in small towns and rural communities where automaker facilities are often among the largest employers. With $39.6 billion contributed to state and local tax revenue last year, these companies are also helping fund schools, infrastructure, and public services that strengthen communities nationwide.
International automakers are not only building vehicles in America—they’re also helping drive U.S. exports around the world. In 2024, international automakers exported nearly 800,000 U.S.-built vehicles to nearly 130 countries and territories. These exports represent a key piece of America’s trade balance and demonstrate the competitiveness of U.S.-based manufacturing on the global stage.
In total, international automakers contributed $342 billion to U.S. GDP last year. They also continue to invest in the future of American workers, with 75% of employees participating in training or professional development programs in 2024. This sustained growth is the result of a long-term commitment to the U.S. market. International automakers are not just building and selling vehicles right here at home—they are part of the foundation of U.S. manufacturing, investing in innovation, workforce development, and community growth.
Maintaining this momentum will require smart, stable policy decisions. International automakers need a predictable regulatory environment, access to a skilled workforce, and continued support for advanced manufacturing. Policies that encourage investment in U.S.-based production, support exports, and promote workforce training will help ensure that this sector continues to grow.
The data in this year’s report makes it clear that international automakers are essential to the health and competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing. They are making long-term investments, creating good-paying jobs, supporting exports, and helping drive economic growth in communities across the country.
