DETROIT --- International auto makers produced more light vehicles in the U.S. than the Detroit 3 for the first time in 2023, according to a report from Autos Drive America and the American International Automobile Dealers Association released July 9.
International auto makers, including Toyota Motor Corp., Hyundai Motor Corp. and Volkswagen A.G., produced 4.9 million light vehicles in 2023. The Detroit 3, in contrast, produced 4.6 million light vehicles during the same period, the groups said.
The groups represent international auto makers and dealers doing business in the U.S.
The change underscores major transformations in automotive production as international auto makers gain more prominence in the U.S. market. International auto makers have increased U.S. production by 85% since 1998 while Detroit 3 production fell around 50% during the same period.
"I think what the report shows is that [international automakers] are invested, and they're going to continue to invest here in the U.S.," Jennifer Safavian, CEO of Autos Drive America, told Automotive News. "They are not going anywhere."
U.S. electric vehicle manufacturers Tesla Inc., Rivian Automotive L.L.C. and Lucid Group Inc. produced 754,342 light vehicles in the U.S. in 2023, according to the report.