BMW Retains Top Spot as the Largest U.S. Auto Exporter in 2024

BMW’s Spartanburg plant remains the top U.S. auto exporter by value in 2024, shipping nearly 225,000 vehicles worth over $10 billion. Learn more about its key markets and industry impact.

BMW’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina continues to dominate as the top U.S. automotive exporter by value. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, the plant exported nearly 225,000 vehicles in 2024, amounting to over $10 billion in total value. This achievement marks the tenth consecutive year that BMW has held this title, reinforcing its pivotal role in the American auto industry.

The factory’s exports span numerous global markets, with Germany, China, South Korea, Canada, and the United Kingdom leading as key destinations. In 2022, Germany topped the list, receiving 15.5% of all BMW exports from the U.S., followed by China (13.5%), South Korea (12.8%), Canada (7.5%), and the U.K. (5.6%). These figures highlight the company’s strong foothold in both European and Asian markets.

Despite global economic fluctuations and shifts in the automotive industry, BMW has maintained its export dominance. The company faces competition from Tesla, General Motors, and Ford, yet remains a significant contributor to the total U.S. auto exports, which reached $65.3 billion in 2023. The Spartanburg plant plays a crucial role in BMW’s global supply chain, serving as its largest production site outside of Germany.

The broader trend in U.S. auto exports has seen notable changes over the years. While exports peaked in 2016 at 131,000 units per month, the numbers plummeted to just 11,400 units in May 2020 due to the pandemic. However, the industry has since rebounded, with U.S. auto exports growing by 9% in 2023, totaling $63.03 billion.

Looking ahead, BMW is poised to strengthen its global position even further. With a focus on electrification and innovative manufacturing technologies, the Spartanburg plant is set to remain a key player in the evolving automotive landscape.

Source: automotiveworld.com