AUTOMOTIVE STUDY 2025 / Šaroch (ed.) et al.

1 GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

1.1 Distribution of production capacity worldwide

1.1.1 Motor vehicle production in the context of world regions We are witnessing signi cant changes in the evolution of the global automotive sector, re ecting technological advances as well as changing consumer preferences and economic conditions. In terms of global motor vehicle production, 2003 and 2023 di er signi cantly. e Asian region, with a production of 22 million vehicles in 2003, will top out at an admirable 55.1 million in 2023. is increase of more than 150% con rms that the Asian region, and China in particular, has become the hub of the automotive industry. As the world’s largest vehicle manufacturer, China is constantly investing in new technologies, electri cation and autonomous driving. Asian automakers dominate the global market not only through high production, but also through innovation and competitive pricing, making them attractive to international markets. In contrast, Europe, a past leader in the automotive industry, has seen its vehicle production fall from 20 million in 2003 to 18.1 million in 2023, a decline of 10% over the past 20 years. is trend re ects various factors, including stricter ecological regulations, increasing competition from Asian manufacturers and changes in demand. e Americas region shows moderate but steady growth from 18.3 million vehicles in 2003 to 19.1 million in 2023. e region is also characterized by high demand for light-truck vehicles. ese are light commercial vehicles (for transporting up to 3.5 tons). Typically, in the USA, for example, the Ford F-150 pickup truck. Statistics on production and sales of passenger vehicles in the region, especially in the USA, are a ected by this trend as they do not include this type of vehicle. In the US, light trucks are often the equivalent of a passenger car. Motor vehicle production in Africa has grown from 0.4 million in 2003 to 1.2 million in 2023, and the region represents great potential for the future of the automotive industry. Local production and cooperation with international automakers can move this region of Africa forward. Overall, the development of vehicle production from 2003 to 2023 is an example of dynamism and adaptation in the automotive industry. Asia remains the unwavering leader, while Europe and America are struggling to adapt to changing conditions.

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