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The automotive industry is a crucial part of the global economy, producing vehicles that efficiently transport people and goods within nations and across entire regions. These companies manufacture cars, trucks, vans, and sport utility vehicles (SUVs). Some even produce motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and commercial vehicles like transport trucks and buses.
The biggest auto manufacturers have a large global footprint, selling vehicles to consumers and businesses worldwide. These big companies are mainly headquartered in just a few countries that lead the industry.
We look in detail below at the 10 biggest car companies by trailing 12 months (TTM) revenue as of September 2025. Some companies outside the United States report profits semiannually instead of quarterly, so the TTM data may be older than it is for companies that report quarterly. This list is limited to publicly traded companies in the U.S. or Canada, either directly or through American depositary receipts (ADRs).
Key Takeaways
- The automotive industry is a crucial part of the global economy, with its biggest companies mainly headquartered in just a few countries.
- The 10 biggest car companies by trailing 12 months (TTM) revenue as of February 2025 are Volkswagen, Toyota, Stellantis, Mercedes-Benz, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Tesla, Nissan, and BYD.
- Our list is limited to publicly traded companies in the U.S. or Canada, either directly or through American depositary receipts (ADRs). Some are only traded over the counter (OTC) in the U.S., not on exchanges.
Important
Some of the stocks below are only traded over the counter (OTC) in the U.S., not on exchanges. This may be because they are foreign companies that do not have sponsored ADRs on traditional exchanges. As a result, trading OTC stocks often carry higher trading costs than trading stocks on exchanges. Additionally, these stocks may be subject to foreign exchange fluctuations. This can lower or even outweigh potential returns.
1. Volkswagen AG (VWAGY)
Volkswagen (VWAGY) is a Germany-based multinational automotive manufacturing company. It develops and produces passenger cars, trucks, and light commercial vehicles such as buses. Vehicle models include the Tiguan, Golf, Jetta, Passat, and more. The company stopped making its once-popular Volkswagen Beetle compact car in 2019 due to falling demand for smaller cars. Volkswagen’s best-known luxury brands are Porsche and Audi. The company also manufactures parts and offers customer financing and fleet management services.
2. Toyota Motor Corp. (TM)
- Revenue (TTM): $335.83 billion
- Net Income (TTM): $29.62 billion
- Market Cap: $251.44 billion
- 1-Year Return (TTM): 5.18%
- Exchange: New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)
Toyota (TM) is a Japan-based multinational. It was the first foreign manufacturer to build a dominant market share in the U.S. automobile market by setting the industry standard for efficiency and quality. Toyota designs and manufactures cars, trucks, minivans, and commercial vehicles. Vehicle models include the Corolla, Camry, 4Runner, Tacoma, and the Prius, the hybrid electric sedan. Lexus is the company’s luxury car division. Toyota also produces parts and accessories and provides dealers and customers with financing.
3. Stellantis (STLA)
- Revenue (TTM): $171.61 billion
- Net Income (TTM): -$2.81 billion
- Market Cap: $26.39 billion
- 1-Year Return (TTM): -39.32%
- Exchange: NYSE
Stellantis (STLA) is a multinational automaker that was created in 2021 through the merger of French automaker Groupe PSA and Italian-American automaker FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles). The company is one of the largest automakers in the world, with a strong presence in Europe, North America, and South America. Stellantis offers a wide range of vehicles, including passenger cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs, under various brands including Peugeot, Citroën, DS, Opel, Vauxhall, Jeep, Ram, Dodge, and Chrysler. The company is headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
4. Mercedes-Benz AG (MBGYY)
- Revenue (TTM): $163.66 billion
- Net Income (TTM): $8 billion
- Market Cap: $59.46 billion
- 1-Year Return (TTM): -3.46%
- Exchange: OTC
Mercedes-Benz (MBGYY) is a German-based multinational automobile manufacturer. The company manufactures passenger cars, vans, off-road vehicles, and commercial vehicles like transport trucks and buses.
5. Ford Motor Co. (F)
- Revenue (TTM): $185.25 billion
- Net Income (TTM): $3.15 billion
- Market Cap: $46.25 billion
- 1-Year Return (TTM): 11.44%
- Exchange: NYSE
Ford (F) is a multinational automotive manufacturer based in Michigan. The company develops, manufactures, and services cars, SUVs, vans, and trucks. Vehicle models include the Mustang, Edge, Escape, F-150, Ranger, and more. The company also provides vehicle-related financing and leasing.
6. General Motors (GM)
- Revenue (TTM): $187.60 billion
- Net Income (TTM): $6.53 billion
- Market Cap: $54.98 billion
- 1-Year Return (TTM): 18.60%
- Exchange: NYSE
General Motors (GM) is a multinational automobile manufacturer. The company designs and manufactures cars, trucks, and automobile parts. It has been a leader in the development of electric cars. It operates under four major vehicle brands: GMC, Chevrolet, Cadillac, and Buick. The company also offers automotive financing.
7. Honda Motor Co. Ltd. (HMC)
- Revenue (TTM): $149.88 billion
- Net Income (TTM): $4.42 billion
- Market Cap: $44.63 billion
- 1-Year Return (TTM): 6.49%
- Exchange: NYSE
Honda (HMC) is a Japan-based multinational automobile company. It manufactures passenger cars, trucks, vans, all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, and related parts. Vehicle models include the Civic, Accord, Insight Hybrid, Passport, Odyssey, and more. Acura is the company’s luxury car division. The company also provides financial and insurance services.
8. Tesla Motors (TSLA)
- Revenue (TTM): $92.72 billion
- Net Income (TTM): $6.06 billion
- Market Cap: $1.08 trillion
- 1-Year Return (TTM): 58.64%
- Exchange: Nasdaq
Tesla (TSLA) is a manufacturer of electric vehicles and clean energy solutions. Tesla manufactures five electric models: the Model 3, Model S, Model X, Model Y, and Cybertruck. Most models are capable of speeds of more than 125 miles per hour (Cybertruck: 112 miles) and can accelerate from 0 to 60 in less than 4.8 seconds. Most have a range of more than 325 miles. Tesla provides financing for retail customers.
9. Nissan Motors (NSANY)
- Revenue (TTM): $85.54 billion
- Net Income (TTM): -$5.65 million
- Market Cap: $8.19 billion
- 1-Year Return (TTM): -19.28%
- Exchange: OTC
Nissan (NSANY) is a Japan-based multinational automotive company. It designs and manufactures passenger vehicles and related parts. Vehicle models include the Altima, Maxima, Sentra, Versa, Pathfinder, Rogue, Titan, and its LEAF electric car. The company’s luxury division is Infiniti. The company also offers financing and leasing services.
10. BYD Co. Ltd. (BYDDY, BYDDF)
- Revenue (TTM): $118.27 billion
- Net Income (TTM): $5.85 billion
- Market Cap: $126.27 billion
- 1-Year Return (TTM): 41.04%
- Exchange: OTC
BYD Co. Ltd. (BYDDY, BYDDF) is a Chinese multinational corporation that specializes in the design, development, and manufacture of a wide range of products, including electric vehicles, batteries, solar panels, and other renewable energy products. The company is headquartered in Shenzhen, China, and has operations in more than 70 countries around the world. BYD is known for its leadership in the electric vehicle industry and has a strong presence in both the passenger car and commercial vehicle markets. In addition to its core businesses, BYD also has a significant presence in the renewable energy sector and is a leading supplier of solar panels and energy storage systems.
What Is the Automotive Industry?
The automotive industry is a global economic sector that involves the distribution, maintenance, marketing, and production of vehicles and parts. In the U.S., the automotive industry makes up a substantial portion of the country’s gross domestic product each quarter.
What Is an Automaker?
An automaker is a company that manufactures vehicles, such as cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans. The Patent-Motorwagen (patented motor car), patented in 1886, is widely considered to be the first practical automobile; it was invented by Karl Benz, who went on to be the founder of Mercedes-Benz. The first U.S. automaker was the Duryea Motor Wagon Company, founded by brothers Charles and Frank Duryea in 1896.
Who Are the Largest U.S. and World Automakers?
The largest U.S. automakers are traditionally known as the Big Three: Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis. They are also referred to as the “Detroit Three,” since they have production facilities in the Detroit area. The largest world automakers include Volkswagen, Toyota, and Stellantis again since it is a multinational company.
The Bottom Line
The 10 biggest car companies and their competitors could benefit in 2025 from positive market trends. These include potential higher sales due to prices leveling off and dealers offering incentives; continuing demand for more compact models; and electric vehicles possibly being cheaper due to lower battery production costs and ongoing dealer discounts.
On the other hand, potential negatives include emissions regulations, tariffs, and tax credits.
