Largest Automaker by Sales in the USA – Quick Facts and Why It Matters

If you’ve ever wondered who’s really driving the US auto market, you’re not alone. The title of "largest automaker by sales" isn’t just a brag—it shapes dealer inventory, resale values, and even the types of financing deals you’ll see on the lot. Below we break down the current front‑runner, the key reasons behind its dominance, and what shoppers can take away from the numbers.

Who Takes the Crown in 2024?

As of the latest sales reports, General Motors (GM) holds the top spot in the United States. GM moved about 1.6 million vehicles through U.S. dealerships last year, edging out Ford and Stellantis (the parent of Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram). The bulk of GM’s volume comes from its Silverado trucks, the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra line‑up, plus the popular Chevrolet Tahoe and Silverado pickups. These trucks account for roughly 45 % of GM’s U.S. sales, showing how much American buyers love a good work vehicle.

Why GM Stays on Top

Three main factors keep GM ahead of the pack. First, its truck lineup meets the demand of both personal and commercial buyers. Second, the company has invested heavily in electric‑vehicle (EV) platforms like the Chevrolet Bolt and upcoming Silverado EV, signaling a future‑proof strategy. Third, GM’s dealer network is massive—over 3,000 locations nationwide—so you’ll find a showroom almost everywhere you go.

Ford isn’t far behind, thanks to the F‑Series trucks and a growing EV lineup (the Mustang Mach‑E and upcoming F‑150 Lightning). Stellantis leans on Jeep’s off‑road appeal and Ram’s pickup popularity. Toyota and Honda also rank high thanks to reliable sedans and hybrids, but their numbers lag behind the truck‑centric giants.

For shoppers, the biggest automaker’s market share matters in a few practical ways. Higher sales usually mean more dealer incentives, better parts availability, and a larger pool of certified‑pre‑owned vehicles. If you’re after a truck, the most‑sold models often get the best resale values and the widest service network.

On the flip side, a larger automaker can also mean higher competition at the dealership, which sometimes leads to pushy sales tactics. Knowing the numbers lets you negotiate from a position of strength—if a dealer knows you’re aware of industry trends, they’re more likely to offer fair trade‑in values or dealer‑installed accessories.

So, what should you do with this info? Start by checking the inventory of the top‑selling models you’re interested in. Look for certified‑pre‑owned versions—these often carry the same warranty benefits as new cars but at a lower price. Also, compare financing offers across multiple dealers; the biggest brands usually have the most competitive rates because they can leverage volume discounts with banks.

Finally, keep an eye on emerging trends. GM’s push into electrics means you’ll see more EV trucks in showrooms soon, and early adopters often enjoy federal tax credits and lower operating costs. If you’re not ready for a full electric, consider a hybrid model from the same brand to get a taste of the technology without the range‑anxiety.

Bottom line: Knowing that General Motors currently leads U.S. sales helps you understand why certain models dominate the lot and why they might hold their value better. Use that knowledge to shop smarter, negotiate confidently, and pick a vehicle that fits both your budget and your lifestyle.