North American Passenger Car Sales for 2020
In 2020, the North American car sales experienced a significant decline and faced unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are key points about car sales during that period:
- Total Sales: The total number of vehicles sold in North America in 2020 was approximately 14.5 million. This figure includes both cars and light trucks.
- Impact of COVID-19: The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the automotive industry worldwide, including North America. In the first half of the year, widespread lockdowns, economic uncertainties, and disruptions in manufacturing and supply chains resulted in a sharp decline in car sales.
- Sales Recovery in the Second Half: While the first half of 2020 witnessed a significant decline in car sales, the industry started to recover in the second half of the year as restrictions eased and economic activity resumed. Pent-up demand, attractive financing options, and consumer preference for personal transportation amid public health concerns contributed to the sales recovery.
- Shift in Consumer Preferences: The pandemic influenced consumer preferences, with a shift towards larger vehicles, particularly SUVs and trucks. As people sought more space and versatility for family and recreational purposes, demand for compact and mid-size SUVs remained relatively strong. However, passenger car sales continued to face challenges and experienced declining demand.
- Government Support and Incentives: Governments in North America implemented various support measures and incentives to stimulate car sales during the pandemic. These measures included low-interest financing programs, deferred payment options, and incentives for electric and hybrid vehicles.
- Online Sales and Contactless Processes: As physical showrooms and dealerships faced restrictions, the industry embraced digital platforms and online sales channels. Virtual showrooms, digital vehicle configurators, and contactless processes, such as online ordering and home delivery, gained prominence in facilitating car sales.
- Technological Advancements: Automotive technology continued to advance in 2020, with a focus on connectivity, infotainment systems, and advanced safety features. Features like touchless entry, enhanced hygiene measures, and contactless payment options gained importance in response to the pandemic.
- Supplier Challenges and Supply Chain Disruptions: Automotive suppliers faced challenges due to disruptions in manufacturing and supply chains caused by the pandemic. Shutdowns and reduced production volumes affected their operations and led to delays and shortages in the availability of certain components.
- Export Challenges: The pandemic and associated disruptions affected global trade, leading to challenges in export markets for North American automakers. Trade restrictions, reduced consumer demand, and economic uncertainties in various regions posed challenges for export growth.
Overall, 2020 was a challenging year for the North American car sales due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The industry faced a significant decline in sales during the initial months, but saw a recovery in the second half of the year. The shift towards larger vehicles continued, and consumer preferences were influenced by the pandemic. Governments provided support and incentives, while digital platforms and contactless processes gained prominence. Automotive suppliers and the export market faced challenges due to disruptions in manufacturing and global trade.
The indicator estimates the number of new passenger car registrations and sales that took place within a country in a year. Passenger cars are road motor vehicles, other than a motor cycle, intended for the carriage of passengers and designed to seat no more than nine persons (including the driver).
List of North American Countries by Motor Vehicle Production for 2020
The average for 2020 based on only 3 North American countries was 1,417,561 new passenger cars sold. The highest value was in the United States: 3,401,838 passenger cars and the lowest value was in Canada: 318,750 passenger cars. Total North America region passenger car sales hit 4,252,685 units produced.
- Total Car Sales for 2020: 4,252,685 – for all of North America
- Top Ranked Country Sales: 3,401,838 – United States
- Lowest Ranked Country Sales: 318,750 – Canada
- Average Country Sales: 1,417,561.7
- Number of Countries in Analysis: 3
It’s important to note that specific sales figures and rankings may vary slightly depending on the source, as data can differ between different market research firms and organizations. For this analysis, we have used OICA data.
| Countries | Sales Units | Rank | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | 3,401,838 | 1 | -27.92 |
| Mexico | 532,097 | 2 | -30.37 |
| Canada | 318,750 | 3 | -35.85 |
2020 North America Region Passenger Car Sales Chart
This visual tree-chart shows the relative size of the North American car market and how each country fairs in terms of market share size.
Top North American Car Markets Ranked for 2020
Source: OICA
