Every October, the U.S. celebrates Manufacturing Month and recognizes the achievements and contributions of the nation’s manufacturing sector. And this year, international automakers certainly have plenty to celebrate: Last year, we outproduced the Detroit automakers (D-3) for the first time ever, increased our investments in U.S. manufacturing to record highs, and continued to create stable, high-paying jobs for American workers.
For decades, international automakers have been contributing to a resurgence in U.S. manufacturing, increasing their domestic production by 50% over the last 20 years. In 2023 alone, international automakers produced an impressive 4,941,917 vehicles, surpassing the D-3, which produced 4,598,135. This milestone reflects the collective efforts of our member companies, workforce, and suppliers who are driving innovation and growth in U.S. manufacturing. And in 2024, we’ve seen this trend continue to grow, with our member companies outproducing their D-3 counterparts by 233,000 vehicles in the first half of 2024.
These impressive manufacturing achievements are driven by a network of 31 manufacturing plants across 12 states producing vehicles, batteries, and components. But this year, we’re not just celebrating past successes – we’re looking ahead to what we’re building next. Six new vehicle and battery plants are under construction across four states, with five slated to open in 2025. With cumulative investments in U.S. operations reaching a record-setting $109 billion, our member companies are expanding opportunities for communities nationwide. These investments are helping to foster employment, spark innovation, and strengthen America’s manufacturing capabilities in ways that will benefit future generations.
None of this would be possible without the dedicated men and women who design and build the vehicles millions of Americans drive every day. Each of the 156,000 employees working for international automakers in the U.S. contributes to something larger than a single company or facility, too. They play a pivotal role in a seamless manufacturing ecosystem – one that depends on the talent, expertise, and resilience of the American worker. Last year alone, our workforce’s contributions accounted for 48% of all vehicle production in the U.S. And despite economic turmoil in recent years, none of our members currently producing vehicles in the U.S. have reported a single layoff over the past 30 years. This is yet another example of our members’ commitment to growing their U.S. operations and providing American workers with good-paying career opportunities.
Beyond supporting the auto workers of today, our member companies are investing more in workforce development and apprenticeship programs than ever before. Right now, international automakers offer 337 workforce development programs across 36 states, equipping workers with the skills they need to compete and thrive in an evolving consumer landscape. By investing in training programs and infrastructure to shape the next generation of workers, our members are ensuring the industry’s economic momentum charges on.
When we talk about American workers fueling an automotive resurgence, we aren’t just referring to traditional auto manufacturing hubs like Detroit. From South Carolina to Alabama, Georgia to Texas, auto workers across the country are driving the innovation and production that keeps the U.S. auto industry competitive on the global stage. Our workers are the backbone of the industry, and their contributions extend far beyond the assembly line, touching every part of the manufacturing process.
Through ongoing investments, international automakers are accelerating community impact, preparing the workforce of tomorrow, and ensuring that the U.S. auto sector remains globally competitive. As Manufacturing Month comes to a close, we’re proud of what we’ve accomplished this year – and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
