Between January and December 2024, General Motors was the leading automotive manufacturer based on sales in the United States. The Detroit company sold nearly 2.7 million passenger cars and light trucks in the U.S., which was around 10,000 more vehicles compared with the same time period one year earlier. Most other manufacturers also recorded an increase in sales in 2024 as they rebounded from the impact of the semiconductor shortage. Tesla, in contrast, reported a year-over-year decrease in sales volume. Electric sales continue growth In 2023, electric vehicles have fared better than conventional vehicles so far. Tesla’s vehicle sales are indicative of this trend on a global level, despite a slight decrease in U.S. sales. Tesla's worldwide deliveries broke records in 2023. However, competition is beginning to gain momentum, and manufacturers such as General Motors are continuing to add new electric vehicle models into their range of vehicles offered. Newcomers such as the Lucid Group and Karma Automotive are also gaining speed, with the Lucid Air Dream Edition Range being the electric vehicle from Model Year 2023 with the longest range. Vehicle market trends stabilize Annual retail sales of new light vehicles in the United States peaked in 2016, when the industry sold over three million units more than in 2020. The declining trend took place during a period of stagnation in the global automotive market, which saw light vehicle sales decline by around 14.4 percent between 2019 and 2020. Though 2023 recorded an uptick in light vehicle sales, this volume remained below pre-pandemic levels. During the 2020 coronavirus pandemic, transport modes that minimize contact with other people have become more attractive. U.S. vehicle sales have been relatively stable across 2022, and had started to grow in 2023.

In 2024, Ford remained the leading car brand in the United States based on vehicle sales, delivering about *** million units to U.S. customers. The United States is the largest market for Ford: wholesales to U.S. dealerships reached over *** million vehicles in 2023. Car sales among major manufacturers The top three U.S. car brands are assembled and distributed by the leading manufacturers in the U.S. market: Ford Motor Company, Toyota Motor Corporation, and General Motors (GM). As of the fourth quarter of 2024, GM's largest segment of sales was attributable to its Chevrolet-badged vehicles. Within the Ford Motor Corporation, the Ford division accounted for the largest number of vehicle sales. And finally, Toyota’s largest distribution of this sales volume was attributable to the Toyota brand vehicles. Automotive industry overview Production and sales volumes are declining among the key automotive brands in the United States, as a result of the accelerated automotive semiconductor shortage, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the fact that the automotive manufacturing and sales market is highly competitive both within the U.S. and globally. Electric vehicles emerged as the leading trend in Europe since 2020 and the U.S. electric vehicle industry has been catching up. Furthermore, it is forecast that autonomous vehicles will disrupt the U.S. market between 2020 and 2030.

In terms of monthly light vehicle sales in the United States, Toyota was the top brand in December 2023 with Ford and Chevrolet in second and third place. Customers in the U.S. bought nearly ******* Toyota-badged vehicles in December 2023. What was the effect of the pandemic on sales? U.S. vehicle sales tanked in March 2020 but bounced back soon thereafter. Due to the global chip shortage, sales fell again through 2021 and 2022. U.S. auto dealers sold around **** million light vehicles in December 2022, an increase of **** percent year-on-year. These figures can be seen as a consequence of the dwindling supply while automakers halted manufacturing due to a lack of semiconductors for vehicle production. Raw material price inflation and the cost of living crisis recorded in 2022 had also impacted the supply and demand for new vehicles. Pre-crisis plateau Slightly under **** million light vehicles were sold to U.S. auto dealers in 2020. Retail sales are estimated to have slowly recovered in 2021, falling short of the ** million mark. New sales of light vehicles remained relatively flat between 2017 and 2019 albeit on a high level. 2019 car and light truck retail sales of just under ** million units put the industry’s new light retail sales figures *** percent lower in 2019 than in 2018. It was particularly passenger cars that did not move off the shelves easily, as light truck sales reached a peak in 2019. Passenger cars now only represented less than one-third of all light vehicle sales in the U.S. While the market recovered through 2023, passenger cars remained the less popular alternative to the larger light trucks for U.S. consumers.

Autos include all passenger cars, including station wagons. The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis releases auto and truck sales data, which are used in the preparation of estimates of personal consumption expenditures.

Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: GMC data was reported at 4,728.000 Unit in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 15,781.000 Unit for Dec 2024. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: GMC data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,035.000 Unit from Dec 2021 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 14 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 15,781.000 Unit in Dec 2024 and a record low of 1.000 Unit in Dec 2021. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: GMC data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA008: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model: ytd.

Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Volvo: Volvo C40 data was reported at 315.000 Unit in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,420.000 Unit for Dec 2024. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Volvo: Volvo C40 data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,420.000 Unit from Jun 2021 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 15 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 6,589.000 Unit in Dec 2023 and a record low of 42.000 Unit in Dec 2021. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Volvo: Volvo C40 data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA008: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model: ytd.

Concerning the ten selected segments, the segment Ford has the largest number of vehicle sales with ********* vehicles. Contrastingly, Subaru is ranked last, with ******* vehicles. Their difference, compared to Ford, lies at ********* vehicles. Find more statistics on other topics: a comparison of the number of vehicle sales in Estonia and a comparison of the number of vehicle sales in Finland. The Statista Market Insights cover a broad range of additional markets.

The graph displays the number of retail car sales in the United States from 1976 to 2025. The x-axis represents the years, ranging from 1976 to 2025, while the y-axis indicates the number of cars sold, spanning from 10,357,300 to 17,477,300. Throughout this period, car sales exhibit significant fluctuations, with the highest sales of 17,477,300 units occurring in 2016 and the lowest of 10,357,300 units in 1982. Overall, the data reveals an upward trend in retail car sales over the decades, despite occasional declines during certain years. The information is presented in a line graph format, effectively highlighting the annual variations and long-term growth in car sales within the United States.

Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Rivian data was reported at 8,553.000 Unit in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 51,579.000 Unit for Dec 2024. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Rivian data is updated quarterly, averaging 17,087.000 Unit from Dec 2021 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 14 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 51,579.000 Unit in Dec 2024 and a record low of 583.000 Unit in Dec 2021. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Rivian data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA008: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model: ytd.

Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Volvo data was reported at 2,718.000 Unit in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 5,393.000 Unit for Dec 2024. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Volvo data is updated quarterly, averaging 3,927.000 Unit from Mar 2021 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 17 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 14,038.000 Unit in Dec 2023 and a record low of 320.000 Unit in Mar 2021. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Volvo data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA008: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model: ytd.

In 2024, the auto industry in the United States sold approximately 15.9 million light vehicle units. This figure includes retail sales of about three million passenger cars and just under 12.9 million light trucks. Lower fuel consumption There are many kinds of light vehicles available in the United States. Light-duty vehicles are popular for their utility and improved fuel economy, making them an ideal choice for savvy consumers. As of Model Year 2023, the light vehicle manufacturer with the best overall miles per gallon was Kia, with one gallon of gas allowing for 30.4 miles on the road. Higher brand satisfaction When asked about light vehicle satisfaction, consumers in the United States were most satisfied with Toyota, Subaru, Tesla, and Mercedes-Benz models. Another survey conducted in 2018 and quizzing respondents on their stance regarding the leading car brands indicated that Lexus was among the most dependable brands based on the number of problems reported per 100 vehicles.

In 2023, BMW was the best-selling European car brand in the United States. Mercedes-Benz was ranked second, while fellow German manufacturer Volkswagen completed the top three. Global car sales are projected to be slightly higher in 2024 compared to preceding years. Car sales in the United States
Out of European car brands, BMW sold the highest number of cars in the United States in 2023. However, this figure was much lower than the number of light vehicles sold by Asian or North American car brands. The Toyota Motor company sold some 1.89 million light vehicles under its namesake Toyota brand in 2023, the second highest number out of all car brands in the United States. However, it was Ford that was the leading American car brand in the United States in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Number of units and total sales of new motor vehicles by vehicle type and origin of manufacture, monthly.

BCC Market Research Report for Automotive Sales. Get North American Car Sales by Model for United States, Canada and Mexico from January 2015 to December 2019.

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US Used Car Market Size 2025-2029

The us used car market size is forecast to increase by USD 40.2 billion at a CAGR of 4.3% between 2024 and 2029.

The used car market in the US exhibits robust growth, driven by the excellent value proposition that pre-owned vehicles offer to consumers. This market trend is further bolstered by the increasing penetration of online platforms dedicated to selling used cars, providing greater convenience and accessibility for buyers. However, the market faces regulatory challenges as stricter emission regulations limit the sale of non-compliant used cars, necessitating investments in upgrading inventory and adhering to regulatory frameworks. These hurdles, while significant, can be navigated through strategic partnerships with emission testing centers and ongoing investment in fleet modernization. Companies that effectively address these challenges and leverage the opportunities presented by the growing demand for used cars and the digital shift in sales channels will thrive in this dynamic market.

What will be the size of the US Used Car Market during the forecast period?

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In the dynamic used car market, consumers face various challenges such as car scams and fraudulent activities. To mitigate risks, car buyers turn to comprehensive car buying guides and car detailing services. A VIN number check is essential for vehicle identification and history assessment, while emissions testing ensures environmental compliance. Car sharing and subscription services offer flexible mobility solutions. Vehicle registration and title transfer processes can be streamlined through digital means, and car refurbishment and connected car technology enhance safety and convenience. Blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control are popular safety features, while collision avoidance systems and lane departure warning systems provide added protection. Used car logistics and online financing applications simplify the purchasing process, and extended warranties offer peace of mind. Wireless charging, smartphone integration, and vehicle diagnostics are essential features for modern cars. Sustainable mobility and car comparison tools cater to eco-conscious consumers, while car maintenance schedules and roadside assistance ensure long-term vehicle care. Remote vehicle inspection and car care tips help maintain a car's resale value, and car subscription services offer flexible ownership alternatives. Used car fraud prevention and vehicle identification technologies protect buyers from potential risks. Car safety ratings and vehicle identification numbers are crucial tools for informed decision-making.

How is this market segmented?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. Distribution Channel3P channel salesOEM channel salesProductMid sizeFull sizeCompact sizeVendor TypeOrganizedUnorganizedFuel TypeDieselPetrolGeographyNorth AmericaUS

By Distribution Channel Insights

The 3p channel sales segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The used car market in the US is a dynamic and significant sector, with numerous entities shaping its activity. Used car buyers continuously seek value, leading to a high demand for pre-owned vehicles. Search engine optimization and online advertising play crucial roles in connecting buyers with sellers, whether they're private parties or car dealerships. Wholesale car lots and auctions provide inventory for dealerships, ensuring a steady supply of used cars. Fleet vehicles, often traded in for newer models, contribute to the used car inventory. Maintenance records and vehicle history reports are essential for buyers, influencing their purchasing decisions. Safety features, infotainment systems, and driver assistance are increasingly desired in used cars, especially among budget-conscious consumers and luxury car buyers. Electric and hybrid vehicles are gaining popularity, driving the demand for used models in these categories. Car negotiation, fuel economy, and vehicle valuation are essential factors in used car selling. Digital marketing, including social media, mobile apps, and data analytics, helps sellers reach a wider audience. Certified pre-owned vehicles, reconditioned cars, and consignment sales offer buyers additional options and peace of mind. Car financing, vehicle inspections, and warranties are essential components of the used car buying process. Autonomous driving technology and car pricing trends continue to evolve, impacting the used car market. As the average ownership cycle shortens, the market will see an increase in the availability of used cars, making it an exciting and ever-changing landscape for both buyers and sellers.

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Strong growth in developing economies, like the BRICS and ASEAN member nations, has driven revenue for global car dealers despite slowdowns in established economies, like North America and Europe. Developed economies focus largely on value-added car purchases, while emerging markets focus primarily on volume. The transition to SUVs and crossovers with more safety and entertainment features has driven growth; in particular, these models' surging adoption rates have created numerous growth opportunities in developing economies. Even so, climbing interest rates across most key markets and faltering global consumer sentiment have somewhat constrained post-pandemic growth. Overall, revenue has expanded at an expected CAGR of 0.7% to $4.4 trillion through the current period, including a 2.1% jump in 2024, where profit reached 2.3%. Supply chain disruptions made new cars significantly more expensive, increasing inventory costs. Similarly, semiconductor and electronic component shortages reduced supply, leaving dealers with limited inventories. Even so, dealers were largely able to leverage torrid demand and pass added costs onto buyers, creating opportunities for revenue and profit growth. Volatile oil supply chains amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict also contributed to swelling demand for more fuel-efficient vehicles. Companies have also integrated online services to make the car-buying process simpler and more accessible, enabling them to combat heightened competition and access a wider network of buyers. The penetration of online platforms has transformed the car sales landscape, favoring larger dealership franchises over independent companies. Car dealers will continue to contend with substitutes, even as economic conditions improve and consumer sentiment rebounds through the outlook period. Government incentives and upstream innovations will also spur demand for electric and hybrid vehicles, generating strong per-unit revenue from dealers. Even so, slowing EV adoption rates in North America may dampen this segment's growth potential. Consumer preferences will also continue to trend toward online vehicle shopping, which provides convenience and efficiency to busy consumers, creating greater competition with various online dealers. Overall, revenue will climb at an expected CAGR of 2.5% to $4.9 trillion through the outlook period, where profit will reach 2.3%.

Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Fisker: Fisker Ocean data was reported at 3,787.000 Unit in Jun 2024. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,660.000 Unit for Mar 2024. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Fisker: Fisker Ocean data is updated quarterly, averaging 2,164.500 Unit from Sep 2023 (Median) to Jun 2024, with 4 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3,787.000 Unit in Jun 2024 and a record low of 997.000 Unit in Sep 2023. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Fisker: Fisker Ocean data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA008: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model: ytd.

Key information about United States Motor Vehicle Sales: Passenger Cars

• United States Motor Vehicle Sales: Passenger Cars was reported at 3,116,647.000 Unit in Dec 2023.
• This records an increase from the previous number of 2,858,575.000 Unit for Dec 2022.
• US Motor Vehicle Sales: Passenger Cars data is updated yearly, averaging 6,089,403.000 Unit from Dec 2005 to 2023, with 19 observations.
• The data reached an all-time high of 7,761,592.000 Unit in 2006 and a record low of 2,858,575.000 Unit in 2022.
• US Motor Vehicle Sales: Passenger Cars data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers.
• The data is categorized under World Trend Plus’s Association: Automobile Sector – Table RA.OICA.MVS: Motor Vehicle Sales: by Country and Type: Passenger Car (PC).

Electric Vehicle Sales: VW data was reported at 9,564.000 Unit in Mar 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,808.000 Unit for Dec 2024. Electric Vehicle Sales: VW data is updated quarterly, averaging 6,049.000 Unit from Mar 2021 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 17 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 10,707.000 Unit in Sep 2023 and a record low of 474.000 Unit in Mar 2021. Electric Vehicle Sales: VW data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA007: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model.

Electric Vehicle Sales: Mazda data was reported at 34.000 Unit in Sep 2023. This records a decrease from the previous number of 51.000 Unit for Jun 2023. Electric Vehicle Sales: Mazda data is updated quarterly, averaging 51.000 Unit from Dec 2021 (Median) to Sep 2023, with 7 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 180.000 Unit in Mar 2022 and a record low of 8.000 Unit in Sep 2022. Electric Vehicle Sales: Mazda data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA007: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model.