The motor vehicle industry is one of the world’s largest.
More than 1 billion vehicles are in use around the
world, and 80 million are produced and sold annually.
Motor vehicles—including passenger cars, trucks, and
commercial vehicles such as buses and taxis—are the
principal means by which people and goods are transported
within and among most communities in the
world.
This book details the history of the motor vehicle
and of the leading carmakers. Inside, you’ll learn just
how cars are made and sold; the leading suppliers of
parts that go into a car; the increasing role of government
in regulating vehicles; and future challenges for
the industry.
The motor vehicle industry includes corporations
that design, develop, and manufacture cars and trucks.
These carmakers, such as Ford and Toyota, are among
the world’s most-familiar corporate brands. The motor
vehicle industry also encompasses lesser-known businesses,
including several thousand parts makers, tens of
thousands of retailers, and specialized lending agencies.
The importance of the motor vehicle industry transcends
even its central role in the global economy. The
industry was responsible for many of the fundamental
innovations of 20th century production, such as
corporate organization, manufacturing processes, and
labor relations, as well as sales innovations including
product branding and consumer financing. In the 21st
century, the motor vehicle industry has been a leader
in adopting new production strategies and expanding
into new markets.