2025 was a monumental year for Autos Drive America and for international automakers across the United States. As a new administration took office, we seized the opportunities presented to us: not only to advocate for our members, but to educate lawmakers and reinforce how international automakers are driving a resurgence of American manufacturing.
In May, we hosted our second-ever Drive-In, bringing nearly 80 auto manufacturing workers from 14 states to Washington, D.C. The Drive-In gave our workers an opportunity to meet directly with Members of Congress and share their stories about the myriad of ways international automakers have supported their careers and their communities.
Throughout the year, we engaged policymakers on the issues that most directly impact American manufacturing—chief among them the need for a stable, predictable trade environment that keeps American manufacturing competitive. We testified before the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) on the importance of the United States-Mexico-Canda Agreement (USMCA), and consistently pushed for policies that encourage investment and support the continued growth of U.S. auto manufacturing. We also tried new ways to reach the White House and stakeholders, creating two television ads that ran on Fox News highlighting our workforce and our production numbers.
This year also brought notable achievements for our members. For the second year in a row, international automakers collectively produced more vehicles in the U.S. than the Detroit-3, underscoring their deep and enduring commitment to American workers and communities. Volvo celebrated 70 years in Charleston, SC, BMW marked 30 years in Spartanburg, SC, and Toyota opened a new battery plant in North Carolina—to name only a few of the milestones our members reached this year.
As we look to 2026, Autos Drive America is preparing for another busy year. The upcoming USMCA review will play a critical role in shaping the future of the U.S. auto industry, and we will work diligently to ensure the agreement strengthens the ability of international automakers to grow, invest, and expand their American workforce.
And as we have over the past five years, we will continue to amplify a simple truth: international automakers in the U.S. are American manufacturers, employing hundreds of thousands of U.S. workers. Their investments are driving growth, strengthening local economies, and creating new opportunities for American communities across the country. At Autos Drive America, we are proud to champion their contributions, and we remain committed to advancing policies that sustain this momentum and secure a stronger future for American manufacturing.
