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Automobiles play a vital role in our lives, serving as the lifeline for businesses and individuals worldwide. Behind this indispensable mode of transportation is the automotive sector, a crucial aspect of the global economy. Over the years, the automotive industry has witnessed tremendous growth, expanding beyond the boundaries of Europe and North America. In this article, we will explore the top 10 car companies based on their global vehicle production in 2022.
#1 Toyota Motor Corporation
Emerging as the leader in 2022, Toyota sold a staggering 9.56 million vehicles worldwide. This Japanese automotive giant has been in operation since 1937 and has established a strong presence globally. Toyota’s first full-size passenger car, the Toyopet Crown, hit the roads in 1952. Notably, the Toyota Corolla clinched the title of the world’s best-selling car model in 1997, surpassing the iconic Volkswagen Beetle. With annual sales of 1.12 million cars in 2022, the Corolla continues to dominate the market.
#2 Volkswagen Group
Securing the second position on the list, the Volkswagen Group sold 8.26 million vehicles globally in 2022. Founded in 1937 and headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany, Volkswagen became renowned for its flagship model, the Volkswagen Beetle, which held the title of the world’s most-sold car until the late 1990s. Apart from the Volkswagen brand, the Volkswagen Group also owns prestigious marques such as Bugatti-Rimac, Porsche, Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, and Ducati.
#3 Hyundai Motor Group
At the third spot, the Hyundai Motor Group sold 6.85 million vehicles worldwide in 2022. Comprising Hyundai Motors, Kia Corporation, Genesis Motors, and the EV sub-brand Ioniq, this automotive conglomerate has made significant strides in the industry. Hyundai, founded in 1967, began its journey by collaborating with Ford Motor Company to develop the Cortina. Expanding into markets like the U.S., Canada, and India, Hyundai has gained recognition for models like the Santa Fe SUV and Sonata.
#4 General Motors
Claiming the fourth position, the General Motors Corporation sold 5.9 million vehicles globally in 2022. With a rich history dating back to 1908, General Motors has been a pioneer in automotive innovation. Despite various mergers, acquisitions, and restructurings, G.M. continues to dominate the U.S. car market, selling nearly 2.8 million vehicles in 2022. With a streamlined portfolio consisting of GMC, Buick, Cadillac, and Chevrolet, General Motors remains a force to be reckoned with.
#5 Stellantis Group
Securing the fifth spot, the Stellantis Group sold 5.8 million vehicles in 2022. The Stellantis group emerged after the merger between Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (FCA) and Peugeot S.A. (PSA) in 2021. With brands like Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Peugeot, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Jeep, Lancia, Maserati, Opel, and Vauxhall under its umbrella, Stellantis has established a diverse and formidable presence in the market.
#6 Ford
Ford, founded by Henry Ford in 1903, secured the sixth position, selling 4.2 million vehicles worldwide in 2022. As a pioneer in mass production, Ford revolutionized the industry with the Model T. Today, Ford and Lincoln are the primary marques under the company. Over the years, Ford has also owned iconic brands like Aston Martin, Jaguar, and Land Rover.
#7 Honda
Honda, a global automotive conglomerate, took the seventh spot, selling 4.1 million vehicles worldwide in 2022. Starting as a motorcycle brand, Honda diversified into cars and has been a dominant force in both industries. Honda’s motorcycle sales have been unmatched since 1964. The company produced its first car, the S500 sportscar, in 1963 and ventured into U.S. production in 1980.
#8 Nissan
In 2022, Nissan stood at the eighth position, with a global sales figure of 3.2 million vehicles. Originating in Japan in 1914 as the Nissan Motor Corporation, the company sold cars in the U.S. market under the brand name Datsun. Notably, the Datsun 240 Z, fondly known as the Fairlady Z, achieved great success in the U.S. market. Currently, Nissan produces cars under the Nissan and Infiniti marques, with its performance sub-brand Nismo garnering recognition in motorsports.
#9 BMW
Placing ninth on the list, BMW sold 2.4 million vehicles worldwide in 2022. Starting as an aircraft engine manufacturer, BMW entered the automotive sector in 1923 with motorcycles. It later ventured into car production, initially producing the Austin 7. Known for catering to the premium, luxury, and performance market segments, BMW offers a range of vehicles spanning from the compact 1-series to the luxurious 8-series, along with its popular SUV range, the X series.
#10 Changan
Rounding up the top 10, Changan produced 2.34 million units worldwide in 2022. Established in 1862 as a military supplies manufacturer, Changan is China’s oldest automobile manufacturer. The company began producing cars in 1959 and currently owns brands like Changan, Oshan, Shenlan, and Kaicene. Their product lineup ranges from passenger cars to premium SUVs and electric vehicles.
Conclusion
Following the economic downturn caused by the 2020 pandemic, the car manufacturing industry is gradually recovering and reclaiming its growth trajectory. The market dynamics have also witnessed changes due to the consolidation of large brand groups like Stellantis. In this article, we have explored the 10 most dominant companies that ruled the car market in 2022. These companies continue to shape the automotive industry and cater to the diverse needs of consumers worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the largest car manufacturer in the world?
In 2022, Toyota emerged as the largest car manufacturer globally, producing 9.56 million vehicles. Toyota has earned a reputation for reliability, with many vehicles surpassing 3 million miles without any major engine rebuild.
Is G.M. or Ford a bigger car company?
In terms of vehicles produced, G.M. takes the lead over Ford in 2022, with G.M. manufacturing 5.9 million vehicles compared to Ford’s 4.2 million. However, when considering revenue, Ford and G.M. generated nearly the same total revenue, with Ford at $158 billion and G.M. at $156.7 billion.
Who are the big 3 companies in cars?
In the 1950s and 60s, the “Big 3” referred to the three largest auto manufacturers in the U.S.: Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler. These companies were not only dominant in the U.S. market but also held the top positions globally. However, with the rise of companies like Toyota, Volkswagen, and BMW, the dynamics of the industry have evolved over the years.
