US auto industry’s share of global production has collapsed from 46 percent in 1965 to under 15 percent today, and there’s no rebound in sight

Summary: The U.S. auto industry, once a dominant economic engine, has declined significantly in global competitiveness. The country’s share of global production fell from 46% in 1965 to 14.7% today. The Big Three American carmakers’ domestic market share dropped from 92% to 38% over the same period. China now leads in motor vehicle production and electric vehicle manufacturing. The ITIF report warns that continued decline threatens U.S. national and strategic security, as the auto sector underpins defense manufacturing capabilities.