The most American-made cars are often not from the traditional "Big Three" but are models like the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang, and Jeep Gladiator. A vehicle's "American-ness" is determined by its final assembly location, the percentage of parts made in the U.S./Canada, and the origin of its engine and transmission. The American Automobile Labeling Act (AALA) requires manufacturers to disclose this information, and organizations like Cars.com publish an annual American-Made Index (AMI) that ranks vehicles based on these combined factors.
For a car to be considered truly domestic, it must have a high percentage of domestic parts content and be assembled in the U.S. by a workforce that is largely American. This supports the local economy beyond just the brand's headquarters.
| Rank | Model | U.S. Assembly Plant Location | Estimated Domestic Parts Content (%) | Engine Origin | Transmission Origin |
|---|
| 1 | Tesla Model Y | Fremont, CA / Austin, TX | > 60% | U.S. | U.S. |
| 2 | Honda Passport | Lincoln, AL | 70% | U.S. | U.S. |
| 3 | Ford Mustang | Flat Rock, MI | 70% | U.S. | U.S. |
| 4 | Jeep Gladiator | Toledo, OH | 72% | Mexico | U.S. |
| 5 | Tesla Model S | Fremont, CA | 55% | U.S. | U.S. |
| 6 | Chevrolet Corvette | Bowling Green, KY | 65% | U.S. | U.S. |
| 7 | Toyota Camry | Georgetown, KY | 60% | U.S. | U.S. |
| 8 | Ford F-150 Pickup | Dearborn, MI / Kansas City, MO | 60% | U.S. | U.S. |
It's a common misconception that only Ford, GM, and Stellantis (Chrysler) build American cars. Many "foreign" brands like Honda, Toyota, and Hyundai operate massive manufacturing plants across the U.S., employing thousands of Americans. When you're looking, check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). If it starts with a 1, 4, or 5, it was assembled in the United States. Buying these vehicles directly contributes to American manufacturing jobs and the economy.
