Some 284.6 million vehicles were registered in the United States in 2023. The figures include passenger cars, motorcycles, trucks, buses, and other vehicles. The number of light trucks sold in the U.S. stood at 12.4 million units in 2023. U.S. vehicle registrations The United States is one of the world’s largest automobile markets based on the number of new light vehicle registrations, with more than 15.5 million new light vehicle registrations in 2023. However, domestic production of automobiles stood at around 1.7 million units in 2023, which was under half the output recorded in 2016. At the same time, the United States imports a significant number of vehicles and vehicle parts from various countries, such as Japan, Mexico, and Canada. Leading car manufacturers in the United States The leading car manufacturers overall in the United States include the domestic heavyweights General Motors and Ford. With respect to car brands, the Ford brand clocked in at number one in 2024, selling around 2.1 million vehicles in the United States alone. The brand's holding company is the Ford Motor Company; it was founded by Henry Ford in 1903 in Dearborn, Michigan. The company pioneered in large-scale car manufacturing and introduced production methods such as the assembly line.

There were nearly 103 million automobiles registered in the United States in 2021. That year, a total of around 282.4 million motor vehicles were registered in the U.S.

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).

Over the course of the 20th century, the number of operational motor vehicles in the United States grew significantly, from just 8,000 automobiles in the year 1900 to more than 183 million private and commercial vehicles in the late 1980s. Generally, the number of vehicles increased in each year, with the most notable exceptions during the Great Depression and Second World War.

Key information about US Number of Registered Vehicles

• US Number of Registered Vehicles was reported at 283,400,986 Unit in Dec 2022.
• This records an increase from the previous number of 282,354,993 Unit for Dec 2021.
• US Number of Registered Vehicles data is updated yearly, averaging 93,949,852 Unit from Dec 1910 to 2022, with 113 observations.
• The data reached an all-time high of 283,400,986 Unit in 2022 and a record low of 468,500 Unit in 1910.
• US Number of Registered Vehicles data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by CEIC Data.
• The data is categorized under World Trend Plus’s Global Economic Monitor – Table: No of Registered Vehicles: Annual.

The U.S. auto industry sold nearly ************* cars in 2024. That year, total car and light truck sales were approximately ************ in the United States. U.S. vehicle sales peaked in 2016 at roughly ************ units. Pandemic impact The COVID-19 pandemic deeply impacted the U.S. automotive market, accelerating the global automotive semiconductor shortage and leading to a drop in demand during the first months of 2020. However, as demand rebounded, new vehicle supply could not keep up with the market. U.S. inventory-to-sales ratio dropped to its lowest point in February 2022, as Russia's war on Ukraine lead to gasoline price hikes. During that same period, inflation also impacted new and used car prices, pricing many U.S. consumers out of a market with increasingly lower car stocks. Focus on fuel economy The U.S. auto industry had one of its worst years in 1982 when customers were beginning to feel the effects of the 1973 oil crisis and the energy crisis of 1979. Since light trucks would often be considered less fuel-efficient, cars accounted for about ** percent of light vehicle sales back then. Thanks to improved fuel economy for light trucks and cheaper gas prices, this picture had completely changed in 2020. That year, prices for Brent oil dropped to just over ** U.S. dollars per barrel. The decline occurred in tandem with lower gasoline prices, which came to about **** U.S. dollars per gallon in 2020 - and cars only accounted for less than one-fourth of light vehicle sales that year. Four years on, prices are dropping again, after being the highest on record since 1990 in 2022.

Graph and download economic data for Sales: Retail Trade: Car Registration: Passenger Cars for United States (USASACRQISMEI) from Q1 1960 to Q3 2021 about car registrations and USA.

Car Registrations in the United States decreased to 216.90 Thousand in June from 254.20 Thousand in May of 2025. This dataset provides - United States Car Registrations - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, there were around ***** million vehicles operating on roads throughout the United States. Almost **** million used vehicles changed owners in the U.S. between the fourth quarter of 2023 and the fourth quarter of 2024, while new registrations of vehicles came to about **** million units during that period. Automotive market disparities The number of licensed drivers had been steadily increasing up to just under ******* in 2023, but the automotive market has been impacted by economic developments over the past few years. The U.S. vehicle fleet is aging, reflected by the slow increase in the average vehicle age from **** years in 2018 to over ** years in 2024. This is in part due to market disparities. The average selling price of new vehicles has been increasing to nearly ****** U.S. dollars in 2024, up from under ****** in 2016. Used car prices have been declining after the chip shortages linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, reaching around ****** U.S. dollars in 2024. The majority of U.S. car owners earned more than ****** U.S. dollars per years, with the ****** to ****** income group owning over ** percent of the vehicles in use. The boom of the used vehicle market Close to ************* of new car buyers were born between 1946 and 1981, with Gen X being the leading consumers by age group for both the new and used vehicle market. Used light vehicle sales have been steadily increasing since 2010, representing well over double the size of the new light vehicle market in 2024. With a product range priced below new vehicle prices, used vehicles are gaining momentum in the United States. The average American household spends some ***** U.S. dollars on vehicle purchases annually, with consumers in income groups earning above 100,000 U.S. dollars per year spending above ***** dollars annually on car buying. Used vehicle financing options are naturally more affordable than new vehicle financing options, with an average monthly payment over *** dollars for loan payments for new vehicles.

Graph and download economic data for Sales: Retail Trade: Car Registration: Passenger Cars for United States (USASLRTCR03GYSAM) from Jan 1960 to Feb 2025 about car registrations, trade, vehicles, retail trade, sales, and retail.

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.

United States US: Passenger Cars: Per One Million Units of Current USD GDP data was reported at 6.065 Ratio in 2019. This records a decrease from the previous number of 6.445 Ratio for 2018. United States US: Passenger Cars: Per One Million Units of Current USD GDP data is updated yearly, averaging 9.732 Ratio from Dec 1994 (Median) to 2019, with 26 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 16.741 Ratio in 1994 and a record low of 6.065 Ratio in 2019. United States US: Passenger Cars: Per One Million Units of Current USD GDP data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.OECD.ITF: Motor Vehicles Statistics: OECD Member: Annual. PASSENGER CARS The stock of road motor vehicles is the number of road motor vehicles registered at a given date in a country and licenced to use roads open to public traffic. This includes road vehicles exempted from annual taxes or licence fee; it also includes imported second-hand vehicles and other road vehicles according to national practices. It should not include military vehicles.; PASSENGER CARS A passenger car is a road motor vehicle, other than a moped or a motorcycle, intended for the carriage of passengers and designed to seat no more than nine people (including the driver). It refers to category M1 of the UN Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles. Passenger cars, vans designed and used primarily for transport of passengers, taxis, hire cars, ambulances and motor homes are not included. Light goods road vehicles, motor-coaches and buses and mini-buses/mini-coaches are not included. Microcars (needing no permit to be driven), taxis and passenger hire cars, provided that they have fewer than ten seats, are included.; PASSENGER CARS Passenger car refers to a motor vehicle other than a motorcycle, utility vehicle or low-speed vehicle consisting of a transport device typically designed for carrying eight or fewer persons.

Graph and download economic data for Automobile Production, Passenger Cars, Factory Production for United States (M0107AUSM543NNBR) from Jan 1913 to Mar 1942 about vehicles, production, and USA.

US: Car Registrations: Passenger Car: Index data was reported at 45.186 2015=100 in 2020. This records a decrease from the previous number of 62.691 2015=100 for 2019. US: Car Registrations: Passenger Car: Index data is updated yearly, averaging 109.110 2015=100 from Dec 1976 (Median) to 2020, with 45 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 151.500 2015=100 in 1986 and a record low of 45.186 2015=100 in 2020. US: Car Registrations: Passenger Car: Index data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.OECD.MEI: Motor Vehicles and Car Registrations: OECD Member: Annual. Data refer to the number of sales of new passenger cars.

Key information about United States Motor Vehicle Production

• United States Motor Vehicle Production was reported at 10,611,555.000 Unit in Dec 2023.
• This records an increase from the previous number of 10,052,958.000 Unit for Dec 2022.
• US Motor Vehicle Production data is updated yearly, averaging 11,292,123.000 Unit from Dec 1997 to 2023, with 27 observations.
• The data reached an all-time high of 13,024,978.000 Unit in 1999 and a record low of 5,731,397.000 Unit in 2009.
• US Motor Vehicle Production 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.MVP: Motor Vehicle Production: by Country.

United States US: First Registrations of Brand New Road Vehicles: %: Passenger Cars data was reported at 92.930 % in 2013. This records an increase from the previous number of 92.926 % for 2012. United States US: First Registrations of Brand New Road Vehicles: %: Passenger Cars data is updated yearly, averaging 92.930 % from Dec 2009 (Median) to 2013, with 5 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 94.285 % in 2009 and a record low of 92.817 % in 2011. United States US: First Registrations of Brand New Road Vehicles: %: Passenger Cars data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.OECD.ITF: Motor Vehicles Statistics: OECD Member: Annual. A passenger car is a road motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle, intended for the carriage of passengers and designed to seat no more than nine persons (including the driver). The term 'passenger car' therefore covers microcars (need no permit to be driven), taxis and hired passenger cars, provided that they have fewer than ten seats. This category may also include pick-ups. A good road motor vehicle is any single road motor vehicle designed to carry goods (lorry), or any coupled combination of road vehicles designed to carry goods, (i.e. lorry with trailer(s), or road tractor with semi-trailer and with or without trailer).; First registrations of brand new passenger cars do not include light trucks. First registrations of brand new goods vehicles refer to commercial vehicles over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.

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.

This shows the number of vehicles that were registered by Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) each month. The data is separated by county for passenger vehicles and trucks. DOL integrates National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel efficiency ratings with DOL titling and registration data to create this information.

United States Motor Vehicle Sales & Leases: New Vehicle: Sales: Passenger Cars data was reported at 5,980.000 Unit th in 2010. This records an increase from the previous number of 5,850.000 Unit th for 2009. United States Motor Vehicle Sales & Leases: New Vehicle: Sales: Passenger Cars data is updated yearly, averaging 8,200.000 Unit th from Dec 1990 (Median) to 2010, with 21 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 9,300.000 Unit th in 1990 and a record low of 5,850.000 Unit th in 2009. United States Motor Vehicle Sales & Leases: New Vehicle: Sales: Passenger Cars data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA005: Motor Vehicle Sales & Leases: Quantity.

Passenger Vehicles Market Outlook

The global passenger vehicles market size was valued at $1.8 trillion in 2023 and is projected to reach $2.7 trillion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period. This remarkable growth is driven by a variety of factors including technological advancements, increasing disposable incomes, and evolving consumer preferences. The industry's rapid expansion is also fueled by the rising demand for electric and hybrid vehicles, coupled with government incentives aimed at reducing carbon emissions.

The growth of the passenger vehicles market is significantly influenced by technological advancements. Innovations such as autonomous driving, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication are transforming the way vehicles are designed and operate. These technologies not only enhance safety and convenience but also appeal to tech-savvy consumers, thereby driving market growth. Moreover, the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in vehicles is enhancing real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance, further boosting consumer interest in modern passenger vehicles.

Another crucial growth factor is the increasing disposable income of consumers in emerging economies. As incomes rise, more individuals can afford to purchase personal vehicles, which significantly drives market expansion. This is particularly evident in countries like China and India, where the burgeoning middle class is contributing to a surge in passenger vehicle sales. Additionally, urbanization and the expansion of road infrastructure in these regions are making vehicle ownership more feasible and attractive, further propelling market growth.

Government policies and incentives also play a pivotal role in the growth of the passenger vehicles market. Many governments worldwide are implementing stringent regulations to curb carbon emissions and promote the use of electric and hybrid vehicles. Subsidies, tax rebates, and other incentives are making these eco-friendly options more affordable and appealing to consumers. For instance, the European Union has set ambitious targets for reducing CO2 emissions from vehicles, which is encouraging manufacturers to focus on producing more electric and hybrid models.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific market is expected to dominate the passenger vehicles sector. The region's large population, rapid economic development, and increasing urbanization are key drivers of this growth. North America and Europe are also significant markets, benefiting from high consumer spending power and advanced technological infrastructure. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are growing markets, driven by improving economic conditions and increasing vehicle affordability.

Vehicle Type Analysis

The passenger vehicles market can be segmented by vehicle type into sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, and others. Sedans have traditionally been a popular choice due to their balance of comfort, performance, and fuel efficiency. They are particularly favored in markets like North America and Europe, where they are often used as family cars. However, the popularity of sedans is facing challenges from other vehicle types as consumers' preferences shift towards more versatile options.

Hatchbacks, known for their compact size and practicality, are gaining traction, especially in urban areas with space constraints. Their affordability and ease of maneuverability make them a preferred choice for city dwellers. In regions like Asia Pacific and Latin America, hatchbacks are witnessing robust growth due to their suitability for congested urban environments and relatively lower price points compared to larger vehicles.

SUVs are experiencing a surge in demand globally, driven by their versatility, higher seating capacity, and enhanced safety features. The SUV segment is particularly strong in markets like the United States, China, and India. Consumers are increasingly favoring SUVs for their all-terrain capabilities and spacious interiors, making them ideal for both urban and off-road driving. The trend towards larger, more powerful vehicles is also contributing to the growing popularity of SUVs.

Other vehicle types, including coupes, convertibles, and minivans, while not as dominant as sedans, hatchbacks, or SUVs, still hold a niche market. These vehicles cater to specific consumer preferences and needs, such as luxury, sportiness, or family transport. The diversity of options within the passenger