If you’ve ever wondered which auto markets are the world’s largest, the statistics might surprise you. The world’s top five auto markets represent four continents with the same five automakers vying for the top spots in each.
1. China
With over 18 million units sold in 2011, China is the world’s biggest auto market. The automaker with the biggest share of the Chinese market is General Motors with over 31 percent. Volkswagen comes in a close second with Nissan, Toyota and Ford rounding out the top five.
2. United States
In the United States where 12 million cars were sold last year, GM is on top with 34 percent of market share compared to Ford’s 28 percent. Toyota is in third place with Nissan and Volkswagen bringing up the rear.
3. Brazil
With more than 3 million cars sold there last year, Brazil is the world’s third-largest auto market. Volkswagen’s 34 percent of market share beats General Motors while GM’s 31 percent more than doubles that of Ford. Nissan is in fourth place, and Toyota is in fifth.
4. Germany
In 2011, automakers sold over 3 million cars in Germany with GM selling half as many as Volkswagen. Ford captures third place followed by Nissan and Toyota.
5. Japan
With 64 percent of market share, Toyota owns the Japanese auto market. Nissan is a distant second with 32 percent while Volkswagen manages 3 percent. Ford and GM struggle to make the list.
Author Jason Lancaster has a special interest in global car sales statistics. He works closely with Toyota Parts Center, a seller of OEM Tacoma parts online.
