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Tesla leads the 2024 American-Made Index by Cars.com, with its Model Y ranked as the most American vehicle for the third consecutive year. Over 50% of the vehicles in the top 100 are assembled in the Southern U.S. The number of U.S.-based auto production facilities has increased by 144% since 2020.
Key Highlights:
- Tesla Model Y is the top American-made vehicle for the third year.
- Tesla remains the only domestic automaker in the top 10.
- Over 50% of vehicles on the index are assembled in non-UAW-represented facilities in the Southern U.S.
- U.S.-based auto production facilities have increased by 144% since 2020.
Tesla’s Dominance and Competition
Cars.com’s 19th annual American-Made Index has highlighted Tesla’s Model Y as the most American vehicle for the third consecutive year. While Tesla did not repeat its 2023 sweep of the top four spots, it still managed to secure three positions in the top 10. Tesla’s Model X and Model 3 experienced drops in rankings, but the automaker continues to lead as the only domestic manufacturer in the top 10.
Southern U.S. Production Boom
The 2024 index reveals a significant shift in U.S. auto production, with over 50% of the top 100 vehicles assembled in the Southern United States. Alabama stands out with 15 vehicles produced across various towns, contributing to the local economy through foreign investments from Mazda, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Mercedes-Benz. Interestingly, 39% of the vehicles on the index were built by UAW-represented labor.
Midwest Manufacturing Powerhouse
Despite the Southern boom, Michigan remains a key player with 16 vehicles on the index. Detroit, the heart of America’s auto industry, benefits from the presence of GM and Ford. GM has the highest representation on the index with 18 vehicles, while Ford follows with 12. Both companies significantly contribute to Michigan’s economy.
Electrification Trends
While 77% of the vehicles on the index are gas-powered, there is a noticeable increase in electrified vehicles, reflecting a 130% growth since 2020. This includes a 100% rise in EVs and a 150% increase in hybrids and plug-in hybrids.
Methodology Insights
The American-Made Index evaluates vehicles based on assembly location, parts sourcing, U.S. factory employment, engine sourcing, and transmission sourcing. For more details on the methodology and the complete list, visit Cars.com/AMI.
Consumer Preferences
A Cars.com survey indicated that 56% of in-market car shoppers are willing to pay more for vehicles that create U.S. jobs. However, 60% of Americans believe that significant contributions to the American economy come from products built in the U.S. by companies headquartered domestically.
Bottom Line
Tesla’s dominance in the American-Made Index and the increasing presence of foreign automakers in the Southern U.S. highlight the evolving landscape of the automotive industry in America. The shift towards electrification and the growing number of U.S.-based production facilities underscore the dynamic nature of this sector.
About Cars.com Cars.com is a leading automotive marketplace, connecting nearly 30 million in-market consumers each month with automotive retailers. Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Chicago, Cars.com offers data, resources, and digital tools to facilitate informed buying decisions. Learn more at www.carscommerce.inc.
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