Motor Vehicles: Global Production Volumes, by year
YearVehicle production,
in millions
202394
202285
202180
202078
201992
201897
201797
201695
201591
201490
201387
201284
201180
201077
200962
200871
200773
200669
200567
200465
200361
200259
200156
200058
  • Region: Worldwide
  • Time period: 2000 to 2023
  • Published: 2024

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Apr 15, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

Recovery in Automobile Production in 2023

Automobile production witnessed a significant recovery in 2023, with 94 million vehicles produced, marking an increase from 85 million in 2022. This 10.6% growth suggests a robust resurgence of the automotive industry, particularly after the challenges faced during the early 2020s.

Impact of the 2020 Downturn

The year 2020 saw a dip in automobile production to 78 million vehicles, the lowest since 2009's 62 million. This decline was due to the global events affecting industries worldwide, showcasing the industry's sensitivity to external shocks.

Highest Production Peaks Before and After 2020

Before the dip in 2020, automobile production peaked in 2017 and 2018 at 97 million vehicles each year, demonstrating a high production capacity. Post-2020, the industry is yet to match or exceed these peak levels, with 2023's 94 million being the closest approach.

Trend of Growth from 2000 to 2023

From 2000 to 2023, the automobile industry experienced overall growth, with production increasing from 58 million vehicles to 94 million. This upward trend, despite fluctuations, illustrates the expanding global demand for automobiles over the decades.

Decade of Recovery Post-2009

Following the significant drop to 62 million vehicles in 2009, the decade afterward marked a period of recovery and growth, culminating in a new peak of 97 million in 2017 and 2018. This period reflects the industry's capacity for resilience and expansion after downturns.

Periodic Fluctuations in Production

Automobile production has shown periodic fluctuations, with notable dips in 2009, 2020, and increases in the years following these downturns. Such patterns highlight the industry's cyclical nature, influenced by global economic conditions and market demand.

Steady Growth in the Early 2000s

The early 2000s marked a period of steady growth for the automobile industry, with production numbers climbing from 56 million vehicles in 2001 to 69 million in 2006. This consistent increase underscores the industry's expansion in the early 21st century.

2023 as a Year of Near-Historical Production Levels

With 94 million vehicles produced in 2023, the automobile industry nearly reached its historical peak production levels, showcasing a strong recovery and the potential for future growth. This suggests an optimistic outlook for the automotive sector moving forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the significant recovery in the automobile production in 2023?

In 2023, automobile production recovered significantly, with 94 million vehicles produced, a 10.6% growth from the 85 million vehicles in 2022.

What were the production levels in the peak years before and after the 2020 dip?

Before the 2020 dip, peak production was at 97 million vehicles in 2017 and 2018. After 2020, the closest approach to this peak was 94 million vehicles produced in 2023.

What has been the overall growth trend in the automobile industry from 2000 to 2023?

From 2000 to 2023, there was an overall growth in automobile production from 58 million vehicles to 94 million, illustrating expanding global demand for automobiles.

Terms and Definitions

Motor vehicles refer to self-propelled conveyances that travel along the ground and do not operate on fixed lines or tracks. These include cars, buses, trucks, and motorbikes. They are designed for transportation of people, goods, or specialized services.

The automotive industry is a sector of the economy that involves the design, development, production, marketing, and selling of motor vehicles. It's a global industry with manufacturers and suppliers located around the world.

A vehicle model refers to a specific version or variant of a motor vehicle. Different models are characterized by distinct features, designs, specifications, and price points. Manufacturers often produce multiple models to meet varied consumer needs and preferences.

Production capacity is the maximum amount of motor vehicles that a manufacturer or the global industry can produce within a set time period, given the available resources. It is dictated by factors like technology, labor, and supply chain abilities.

In the automotive industry, the supply chain refers to the network of manufacturers, vendors, transporters, warehouses, and retailers involved in producing, handling, distributing, and selling motor vehicle parts and final products. Disruptions in the supply chain can affect global production volumes.

A production line is a set of sequential operations established in a factory where components are assembled to make a finished product - in this case, motor vehicles. It's designed for efficient mass production and directly influences production volumes.
All statistics
All topics
Passenger Cars
The passenger cars market is highly competitive, with global automakers competing for a larger share and smaller companies offering vehicles at different price points. Consumers are favoring greener options such as electric and hybrid cars to meet environ Read more »