The global auto industry is in the middle of its biggest reordering in a generation, and our ranking of the largest car companies in the world reflects it. An accelerating shift to electric vehicles, the rapid rise of Chinese automakers, and a reshuffling of the old guard have redrawn the entire leaderboard.
Tesla proved that battery-electric cars could be desirable, profitable, and aspirational all at once. But the clearest sign of how far the ground has moved is BYD Auto: the Shenzhen company now sells more than 4 million electrified vehicles a year and has overtaken Tesla on revenue, joining the conversation about who will lead the next era of mobility.
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Around one in four new cars sold worldwide is now electric.
At the very top, the contest is as tight as ever. Volkswagen Group holds the revenue crown at north of $350 billion, while Toyota Motor Corporation remains the world’s highest-volume automaker, moving more than 10 million vehicles a year. Behind them, America’s General Motors and Ford still command enormous revenue, and Stellantis — the group formed from the merger of Peugeot S.A. and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. — keeps a sprawling portfolio of household names under one roof.
From supply-chain shocks to the mounting pressure of carbon-neutral targets, the largest car companies in the world have navigated a demanding stretch and kept growing. They’re steering the future of mobility toward something more electric, more software-defined, and more global than ever.
The 25 largest car companies in the world
| Rank | Logo | Country (Revenue) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Volkswagen Group | Germany($353 billion) |
| 2 |  Toyota | Japan($320 billion) |
| 3 |  General Motors | United States($187.4 billion) |
| 4 |  Ford Motor | United States($185 billion) |
| 5 |  Stellantis | Netherlands($170.5 billion) |
| 6 |  Mercedes-Benz | Germany($158.3 billion) |
| 7 |  BMW Group | Germany($154.8 billion) |
| 8 |  Honda | Japan($144.6 billion) |
| 9 |  Hyundai | South Korea($128.8 billion) |
| 10 |  BYD Auto | China($107.9 billion) |
| 11 |  Tesla | United States($97.7 billion) |
| 12 |  SAIC Group | China($87.2 billion) |
| 13 |  Nissan | Japan($84.2 billion) |
| 14 |  Geely Holding | China($79.9 billion) |
| 15 |  Kia | South Korea($79 billion) |
| 16 |  FAW Group | China($76 billion) |
| 17 |  BAIC Group | China($66.7 billion) |
| 18 |  Renault | France($61.1 billion) |
| 19 |  Chery | China($59.7 billion) |
| 20 |  GAC Group | China($55.8 billion) |
| 21 |  Tata Motors | India($53 billion) |
| 22 |  Dongfeng | China($51.3 billion) |
| 23 |  Suzuki | Japan($42 billion) |
| 24 |  Mazda | Japan($33.5 billion) |
| 25 |  Subaru | Japan($31.3 billion) |
Check our methodology after the list to see how we rank the largest car companies in the world.
1. Volkswagen Group (Germany) – $353 billion
If you think Volkswagen’s chief achievement was the Beetle, you’re underestimating this behemoth automaker. Through decades of acquisitions and mergers, Volkswagen Group has become the largest car company in the world, with annual revenue north of $350 billion.
A few major labels in this massive umbrella include the namesake Volkswagen lineup, Audi, Porsche, Škoda (Czech Republic), and SEAT (Spain). It also has 100% ownership of the iconic automotive design firm Italdesign Giugiaro S.p.A. and 45% ownership of Bugatti Rimac, cranking out some of the fastest cars in the world.
With a firm footing in Europe and China, Volkswagen is pressing an ambitious North American growth plan — building electric vehicles on U.S. soil and securing the battery supply to power them.
| Headquarters | Wolfsburg, Germany |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1937 |
| Worldwide market share | ~10.1% |
| Cars sold | 9.03 million |
2. Toyota (Japan) – $320 billion
Although second by revenue, Toyota Motor Corporation is the largest car company in the world based on vehicles sold. And getting to a mind-blowing 10.8 million units per year doesn’t happen by accident.
Toyota has opened a facility dedicated to battery-electric vehicle development and next-generation battery research, and it’s scaling BEV and battery production in North America. The strategy pairs affordable pricing with the long ranges that win over first-time EV buyers.
This company sits behind the logo of four different brands: its namesake, Toyota, Daihatsu, and Hino, and the distinguished luxury brand Lexus. The Toyota Motor Corporation also holds minority stakes in other automakers, including Subaru and Mazda.
The world has been patient for Toyota’s full electric push, but the brand remains, undeniably, one of the top car companies in the world.
| Headquarters | Toyota, Japan |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1937 |
| Worldwide market share | ~12.1% |
| Cars sold | 10.8 million |
3. General Motors (United States) – $187.4 billion
Established in 1908, General Motors has over a century of automotive experience as one of the best American car brands. It stood atop the list of the biggest car manufacturers in the world by volume for 77 years before Toyota took the reins in 2008.
This Detroit automaker sells vehicles under four brands, including Chevrolet and GMC, plus two luxury divisions, Cadillac and Buick. It is also a stakeholder in two Chinese automotive brands, Baojun and Wuling, in collaboration with SAIC Motor.
GM’s electric ambitions have moved from promise to production. The Chevrolet Bolt EV was one of the first affordable electric cars with serious range, and the Ultium platform now underpins the Cadillac LYRIQ, GMC HUMMER EV, and Chevrolet Silverado EV, Blazer EV, and Equinox EV.
| Headquarters | Detroit, United States |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1908 |
| Worldwide market share | ~6.7% |
| Cars sold | 6.0 million |
4. Ford Motor (United States) – $185 billion
Ford Motor Company is an embodiment of the American dream. Founded in 1903 by the visionary Henry Ford, this long-standing automaker isn’t letting some of the best classic cars dictate the path forward.
Ford is among the best-selling electric vehicle brands in the U.S., with loads of demand for its Mustang Mach-E, the Rivian rival F-150 Lightning, and E-Transit electric van.
Ford has simplified its brand lineup and now operates under just two names, Ford and the luxury brand Lincoln.
From its Model T days to the electric era, Ford has ceaselessly driven the spirit of innovation. With the hum of electric motors echoing its storied V8s, Ford is paving lanes on the highway of progress, ensuring its legacy remains timeless in the fast-evolving world of automobiles.
| Headquarters | Dearborn, United States |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1903 |
| Worldwide market share | ~5.0% |
| Cars sold | ~4.5 million |
5. Stellantis (Netherlands) – $170.5 billion
When two of the biggest car groups in the world collide, it’s worth paying attention to. Stellantis resulted from the 2021 merger between Peugeot S.A. and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.
Stellantis is a force to be reckoned with as an undeniable frontrunner on the largest-automakers lists, with a presence in more than 130 countries and one of the broadest brand portfolios in the industry.
Even if it’s not a household name quite yet, many of its subsidiary brands are. It includes top luxury car brands like Alfa Romeo and Maserati, plus rugged Jeeps and mass-market Chrysler, Fiat, and Peugeot. This decentralized structure allows each brand to operate with autonomy while benefiting from the synergies and resources of the larger group.
This global car company has its eyes set on cutting CO2 emissions in half by 2030. It is ramping up production of hybrid and battery-electric vehicles, including options like the Jeep Avenger, the first-ever fully electric Jeep SUV.
| Headquarters | Amsterdam, Netherlands |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 2021 |
| Worldwide market share | ~6.0% |
| Cars sold | 5.42 million |
6. Mercedes-Benz Group (Germany) – $158.3 billion
In the grand tapestry of the most legendary and largest car companies, Mercedes-Benz weaves threads of luxury, history, and innovation. This luxury car brand is synonymous with elegance, power, and innovation. And despite well under 2.5 million units sold, it hits near the top of the charts of the biggest automakers by revenue.
The Mercedes-Benz luxury brand has been leading the charge forward with technological advancements. It has expanded its all-electric lineup under the EQ badge and is building a global network of charging stations.
Mercedes-Benz stands as a titan in the automotive world. As it steers into tomorrow with some of the best electric cars, the gleam of the three-pointed star promises to illuminate roads less traveled.
| Headquarters | Stuttgart, Germany |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1926 |
| Worldwide market share | ~2.7% |
| Cars sold | 2.39 million |
7. BMW Group (Germany) – $154.8 billion
The BMW Group is more than just its namesake BMW luxury brand. It boasts a diversified portfolio, including MINI, known for its British heritage and unique design, and Rolls-Royce, the pinnacle of automotive luxury.
As one of the largest car companies in the world, BMW is firmly part of the electric movement. It now delivers well over 400,000 fully electric vehicles a year and sees a bright future in sustainable markets. The brand has released a deep bench of i-Series EVs and has even brought silent powertrains to the Rolls-Royce platform.
| Headquarters | Munich, Germany |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1916 |
| Worldwide market share | ~2.7% |
| Cars sold | 2.45 million |
8. Honda (Japan) – $144.6 billion
Honda’s automotive journey, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the highways of the world, has been about crafting machines. It’s not just metal and rubber. It’s automotive prowess, a fusion of innovation, reliability, and engineering precision. Honda was also the first Japanese automaker to establish a wholly-owned luxury division, Acura. This is the only other brand Honda sells cars under, but it includes popular models like the MDX SUV and the revived Integra liftback.
As one of the largest car companies in the world, Honda has committed to making its entire North American lineup zero-emission by 2040.
| Headquarters | Tokyo, Japan |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1946 |
| Worldwide market share | ~4.2% |
| Cars sold | ~3.8 million |
9. Hyundai (South Korea) – $128.8 billion
Bringing Korean expertise to the world, the Hyundai Motor Group has blossomed into one of the world’s largest automotive companies. The group also owns the luxury brand Genesis and about a third of Kia.
Hyundai may not be the absolute biggest carmaker in the world, but it does hold the claim to a special bragging right. Hyundai’s Ulsan plant is the largest automobile plant in the world, creating more than 1.5 million cars per year.
Like most of the largest car manufacturers, Hyundai has made bold moves toward alternative energy. Its electric vehicles, like the Hyundai Kona Electric and Ioniq 5, have garnered international acclaim for their blend of range, design, and value.
True ambition extends far beyond conventional vehicles. Hyundai’s acquisition of Boston Dynamics, a leading robotics company, hints at a future where mobility, automation, and daily life intertwine seamlessly.
| Headquarters | Seoul, South Korea |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1967 |
| Worldwide market share | ~4.6% |
| Cars sold | 4.14 million |
10. BYD (China) – $107.9 billion
Few stories capture the industry’s shift like BYD Auto, whose parent company, BYD Co Ltd, counts a substantial investment from Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway among its backers.
BYD released the BYD F3 compact sedan, one of the world’s first mass-production plug-in hybrids, and never looked back. It became the first Chinese brand to sell one million new energy vehicles (NEVs) in a single year — and it now sells more than four million electrified cars annually, overtaking Tesla on revenue and breaking past $100 billion.
The automaker has accelerated expansion into Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Americas. Its cars are sold under the BYD label as well as Denza, which started as a collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, and the Yangwang luxury division reaching for the upper end of the market.
| Headquarters | Shenzhen, China |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 2003 |
| Worldwide market share | ~4.8% |
| Cars sold | 4.27 million |
11. Tesla (United States) – $97.7 billion
Looking at Tesla’s market value, you might expect the EV brand to top our ranking of the largest car companies in the world. But revenue tells a different story.
Despite selling well under two million cars a year, Tesla is the world’s most valuable car company by a wide margin. That market capitalization is the more telling measure of this brand’s impact, having catapulted the entire industry toward a greener, more sustainable future built on battery-electric technology.
With a tight lineup all sold under the Tesla name — two sedans, two SUVs, the Cybertruck, and an announced relaunch of the performance Roadster — the company profile stays refreshingly simple.
Although EV competition is heating up, Tesla stays ruthless with its pricing, delivers exceptional performance, and commands a cult-like following that matches or exceeds the one enjoyed by century-old industry titans.
| Headquarters | Austin, United States |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 2003 |
| Worldwide market share | ~2.0% |
| Cars sold | 1.79 million |
12. SAIC Group (China) – $87.2 billion
In the vast array of automotive giants, the Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp (SAIC) Group uses its many decades of experience to paint a vivid image of forward-thinking and adaptability. Headquartered in Shanghai, it is the largest of the “Big Four” state-owned car manufacturers in China.
There are many labels applied to the more than 100 SAIC Group vehicles. It owns the brands IM, Maxus, MG, Rising, Roewe, Baojun, Wuling, Hongyan, and Sunwin, and is part of many partnership efforts, including one with Volkswagen and one with General Motors.
SAIC has considerable investments in electric vehicles and new energy vehicles (NEVs) that are all but certain to pay off. It is already among the top BEV makers in the world.
| Headquarters | Shanghai, China |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1955 |
| Worldwide market share | ~4.5% |
| Cars sold | 4.01 million |
13. Nissan (Japan) – $84.2 billion
With a far-reaching footprint, Japanese automotive powerhouse Nissan holds a meaningful slice of the global market with more than 3.3 million units sold. Becoming one of the biggest car companies in the world was propelled by a diverse and captivating lineup fused with consistent engineering prowess.
A Nissan model might be unlikely to hit the list of the most expensive cars, but they’re still plenty of fun. Most of this global car company’s vehicles are sold under the Nissan badge, but it also has the Infiniti luxury division and Nismo in-house tuning shop.
Nissan has partnered with Renault since 1999 to share resources and platforms, though the balance of that alliance has shifted over the years. The brand also reaches to other automakers for collaborations, including kei cars with Suzuki and Mitsubishi, plus market connections through Mazda, Subaru, and Dongfeng.
| Headquarters | Yokohama, Japan |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1933 |
| Worldwide market share | ~3.7% |
| Cars sold | 3.35 million |
14. Geely Holding (China) – $79.9 billion
Yet another name that exemplifies China’s stratospheric rise in the automotive industry, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group has swiftly become one of the largest global contenders making ripples in the international automotive waters.
Geely Holding entered vehicle production in 1997, and it immediately became its core business. The group now employs well over 100,000 people worldwide and sits behind a dizzying number of car brands.
Chinese billionaire entrepreneur Li Shufu (also known as Eric Li) is the majority owner of Geely Holding. The company produces cars under the Geely name and built a premium EV division around the Zeekr label.
But it also holds significant portions of Lotus Cars, Volvo, Polestar, Farizon Auto, Cao Cao Mobility, Geometry, Smart, and London Electric Vehicle Company — a portfolio that stretches from affordable commuters to the most exclusive corners of the market.
| Headquarters | Hangzhou, China |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1986 |
| Worldwide market share | ~3.7% |
| Cars sold | 3.34 million |
15. Kia (South Korea) – $79 billion
Once a humble automotive player from South Korea, Kia has now evolved into a powerhouse of style and innovation. Distinctive, bold models like the Stinger, Telluride, and Seltos have stolen the spotlight with a superb blend of performance and aesthetics.
Although this major car brand shares some ties with its domestic counterpart Hyundai, Kia Corporation is a separate entity with a global audience. Hyundai became a majority owner in Kia after the brand experienced financial difficulties in 1998. Today, Hyundai’s stake has settled at about a third of Kia, with great autonomy provided to the once-struggling automaker.
Kia’s vision for a greener future is showcased across a wide array of electric and hybrid options. The Niro EV, EV6, and flagship EV9 SUV balance performance, efficiency, and value with real flair.
| Headquarters | Seoul, South Korea |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1944 |
| Worldwide market share | ~3.4% |
| Cars sold | 3.09 million |
16. FAW Group (China) – $76 billion
As one of China’s “Big Four” car manufacturers, FAW Group has a rich history and promising future. It unveiled China’s first domestically produced passenger car, the Hongqi, in 1958.
Nowadays, the big car company sells vehicles mostly under three brands. Hongqi is still around and serves as the luxury division. Bestune, domestically known as Benteng, is the passenger-car division. Jiefang creates medium and heavy trucks with roots tracing back to 1956.
FAW Group is a state-owned enterprise controlled and managed by the Chinese State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC). Collaborations with companies like Volkswagen and Toyota form a core part of FAW’s modern strategy, enabling the sharing of expertise and technology.
| Headquarters | Changchun, China |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1953 |
| Worldwide market share | ~3.6% |
| Cars sold | 3.2 million |
17. BAIC Group (China) – $66.7 billion
While it might not have strong brand recognition internationally, BAIC Group holds an accelerating position on the list of the largest automotive companies.
The Beijing Automotive Industry Group Co. has been a prominent player in China’s automotive industry since 1958, with a well-rounded presence in passenger, military, agricultural, and trucking segments. Much of its scale comes from heavyweight joint ventures with Mercedes-Benz (Beijing Benz) and Hyundai.
As one of China’s biggest car companies, BAIC anchors an integrated value chain spanning development, manufacturing, and sales. It sells an entire lineup of cars, SUVs, and off-road vehicles under the BAIC brand, a rebranded version of the prior Senova marque.
Arcfox is BAIC’s premium electric vehicle brand. Its vehicles have started to turn heads, as have their designs. The prototype Arcfox GT was a 1,600-horsepower monster seemingly ready to compete with the likes of Koenigsegg or Pagani.
| Headquarters | Beijing, China |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1958 |
| Worldwide market share | ~1.9% |
| Cars sold | 1.71 million |
18. Renault (France) – $61.1 billion
Through an eclectic mix of vehicles, Renault has greeted the world with its French roots. The manufacturer has been based in Boulogne-Billancourt, just outside Paris, since its founding in 1899.
Renault sells vehicles under its iconic namesake emblem throughout the world, blending sophisticated European styling with advanced engineering. It also has a race-focused division, Alpine, which produces the Alpine A110 rear-mid-engine sports car and competes on the world’s stage in Formula One. The brand also owns Romania-based Dacia, producing a variety of sedans and compact SUVs.
Renault’s reach also extends deep into Japanese automaker Nissan, though its once-43.5% ownership has been pared back as the alliance has been rebalanced.
| Headquarters | Boulogne-Billancourt, France |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1899 |
| Worldwide market share | ~2.5% |
| Cars sold | 2.26 million |
19. Chery (China) – $59.7 billion
The fastest climber among the world’s largest car companies, Chery has gone from a regional player to a global force in a remarkably short time. The Wuhu-based automaker is China’s largest vehicle exporter, and that export engine is what powers its place on this list.
Chery sells cars under its namesake brand alongside a fast-expanding family of marques aimed squarely at international buyers: Omoda and Jaecoo for style-led crossovers, iCar for boxy electric SUVs, and the premium EV label Exlantix reaching upmarket. A joint venture with Jaguar Land Rover rounds out its global footing.
Its momentum has been hard to ignore. Strong demand across the Middle East, South America, Russia, and increasingly Europe has pushed Chery into the upper ranks of the biggest automakers — and its electrified and hybrid lineups suggest it intends to stay there.
| Headquarters | Wuhu, China |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1997 |
| Worldwide market share | ~2.9% |
| Cars sold | 2.6 million |
20. GAC Group (China) – $55.8 billion
GAC Group, or Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd., stands as a dynamic player in the ever-evolving Chinese state-owned automotive landscape.
With a diverse lineup that spans passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, and SUVs, GAC caters to a vast demographic. Brands under its umbrella, such as GAC Trumpchi and premium label Aion, have found favor both domestically and internationally. This giant automaker has steadily risen in prominence with its eyes set on the global horizon.
The Aion Hyper GT executive car is one of its more exciting developments, along with the lightning-fast two-door Hyper SSR. Perhaps someday, this brand will grow into one of the best luxury car brands around.
Strategic collaborations further enhance GAC’s global posture, including joint ventures such as GAC-Toyota and GAC-Honda.
| Headquarters | Guangzhou, China |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1955 |
| Worldwide market share | ~2.2% |
| Cars sold | 2.0 million |
21. Tata Motors (India) – $53 billion
Headquartered in Mumbai, The Tata Group has shaped its country’s transportation landscape. It focuses intensely on the domestic market, meeting local demand in competition with Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, and Mahindra.
The heart of Tata’s passenger offerings includes many affordable models with contemporary designs. The Tata Safari is a mid-size crossover that was ahead of its time, and the Nexon EV brings an electrified jump forward.
Internationally, Tata is best known as the owner of Jaguar Land Rover since 2008. It is indeed the driving force behind the iconic Land Rover and Jaguar brands.
| Headquarters | Mumbai, India |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1868 |
| Worldwide market share | ~1.5% |
| Cars sold | 1.38 million |
22. Dongfeng (China) – $51.3 billion
Dongfeng Motor Corporation is one of China’s most prominent automotive giants. Roughly translated to “East Wind,” Dongfeng is emblematic of the robust winds of change and progress in the automotive world.
To become one of the largest car companies in the world, Dongfeng built an expansive portfolio encompassing everything from passenger cars to commercial trucks. Its diverse lineup includes brands such as Dongfeng Aeolus, the luxury electric division Voyah, the multi-purpose Forthing, and the rugged Mengshi.
Partnerships with international names like Nissan and Honda have enriched its offerings, blending global design and technology with Dongfeng’s local expertise.
| Headquarters | Wuhan, China |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1969 |
| Worldwide market share | ~2.8% |
| Cars sold | 2.48 million |
23. Suzuki (Japan) – $42 billion
Some of the biggest car manufacturers have been diligent about maintaining a streamlined portfolio with limited options. Suzuki takes the other route, with an extensive lineup of current models and an encyclopedia’s worth of past ones.
By taking this wide-net approach, this Japanese car brand has hit the mark for many. Suzuki is well-known for its agility and keen market insights, crafting vehicles that resonate internationally.
As one of the largest car companies, Suzuki has formed many strategic alliances and found a foothold in international markets. Suzuki Motor Corporation is the controlling entity of Maruti Suzuki India Limited, which holds a substantial portion of the Indian car market.
It also maintains a sizable position in Pakistan’s automotive industry, plus a notable presence across the United Kingdom and the European Union. There was once a Suzuki Motor of America serving the United States, but the brand exited the US car market in 2012.
| Headquarters | Hamamatsu, Japan |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1909 |
| Worldwide market share | ~3.6% |
| Cars sold | 3.25 million |
24. Mazda (Japan) – $33.5 billion
Standing out from the crowd of the best and biggest car companies in Japan is an uphill battle. And despite humble roots as a cork-maker, Mazda has been racing up this mountain with well-timed shifts and innovative engineering.
In today’s world, Mazda has cemented its place as one of the largest auto manufacturers, sticking almost exclusively to models sold under its namesake brand, but also a few select partnerships with brands like Toyota.
Its diverse portfolio of cars, SUVs, kei cars, vans, and commercial trucks is sold globally from North American shores to Europe’s busiest streets. Mazda’s vehicles resonate with those looking for unique aesthetics, advanced technology, and pure driving pleasure.
| Headquarters | Hiroshima, Japan |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1920 |
| Worldwide market share | ~1.4% |
| Cars sold | 1.28 million |
25. Subaru (Japan) – $31.3 billion
A love for adventure meets a safety-focused approach in every Subaru model. For more than 70 years, the automotive brand has pushed versatility and capability forward while consistently avoiding excess. In return, the brand has earned a loyal following full of passionate enthusiasts.
The Subaru Corporation, once known as Fuji Heavy Industries, sits at the top of the corporate structure. The car-manufacturing division, Subaru, soaks in about two-thirds of total revenue, with the majority of sales in the United States, while other corporate endeavors focus on aerospace engineering.
To become one of the largest car brands in the world, Subaru pushed into sustainability well before the crowd. It operated the first auto assembly plant to achieve zero-landfill status and uses highly recyclable materials throughout its vehicles. Subaru engines have been low-emissions for years, although the brand still has road ahead of it in the charge toward EVs.
| Headquarters | Tokyo, Japan |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1953 |
| Worldwide market share | ~1.0% |
| Cars sold | 936,000 |
Methodology: How we rank the largest car companies in the world
There are many ways to order the list of the largest car companies in the world. Some choose to use vehicles produced or sold, while others focus on profitability.
We selected revenue as the primary ranking factor because it’s a metric that accounts for multiple forces shaping the reach and impact of a company. It helps account for the real differences in vehicle pricing and the volumes sold.
Another reason we prefer this metric is that it’s an audited number pulled directly from annual financial statements.
At the end of the day, no single metric will tell you the whole story. That’s why we’ve included a few other crucial benchmarks along with detailed insight into each company’s internal structure, expertise, and outlook.
By gathering all of this in one spot, we’ve created the ultimate list of the 25 largest car companies in the world, which accounts for over 90% of the global automotive market.
Frequently asked questions about the largest car companies
Frequently asked questions about the largest car companies
Who is the largest automotive company in the world?
The Volkswagen Group is the largest automotive company in the world, with annual revenue north of $350 billion. Toyota follows closely at around $320 billion, but Toyota leads on volume, selling more than 10.8 million vehicles a year compared with Volkswagen’s roughly 9 million. See our full ranking of the largest car companies in the world for the complete picture.
What is the largest-selling car company in the world?
Toyota is the largest-selling car company in the world by volume, moving more than 10.8 million vehicles a year — close to 2 million more than its nearest rival, Volkswagen, at around 9 million. Stellantis sits third by volume at roughly 5.4 million units.
What is the richest car company?
By revenue, the richest car company is the Volkswagen Group at more than $350 billion, with Toyota close behind near $320 billion and General Motors third at around $187 billion. By stock-market value, Tesla is by far the richest car company, worth more than the legacy automakers despite selling a fraction of their volume.
Who are the top 3 car manufacturers?
The top 3 car manufacturers by revenue are Volkswagen Group, Toyota, and General Motors. Each is the umbrella over many familiar names: Volkswagen produces Audi and Porsche, Toyota is behind Lexus and Daihatsu, and General Motors builds Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, and Buick.
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