The Toyota group remains the world's leading automaker in 2026
- Global automotive production volume (passenger cars and light commercial vehicles) fell by 1% in the first half of 2026 compared to the first half of 2025. This decline was driven by a drop in production in China (-4.2%, or 660,000 fewer vehicles), which was not offset by production increases in other regions of the world. Notably, China’s political allies also saw their production decline during the same period (a drop of 200,000 vehicles for Iran and 100,000 for Russia).
- Against this backdrop, shifts in the rankings primarily affect Chinese manufacturers.
- Between 2025 and 2026, the BYD Group fell from 5th to 9th place, while the Geely Group moved from 8th to 7th, now holding the enviable position of the leading Chinese automaker. The Chery Group moved from 13th to 12th place, and the SAIC Group climbed from 16th to 15th. Finally, the Changan Group slipped from 18th to 20th place.
- Among non-Chinese brands, Toyota (up 1.4%) solidified its position as the global leader, ahead of Volkswagen (down 11%), Hyundai-Kia (down 3.8%), Stellantis (up 2.7%), GM (down 0.1%), and Ford (down 7.8%).
- Behind these six major Japanese, European, Korean, and American manufacturers, we see the presence of the Geely Group, which—as previously noted—became the leading Chinese automaker in the first half of 2026.
- The Suzuki Group (up 10.8%), bolstered by strong growth in the Indian market, ranks 8th, ahead of BYD, Honda, Nissan, Chery, BMW, Renault, SAIC, and Mercedes. Tesla follows close behind in 17th place.