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Small Cars - United States

United States
  • Revenue in the Small Cars market is projected to reach US$6bn in 2024.
  • Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2029) of 3.36%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$7bn by 2029.
  • Small Cars market unit sales are expected to reach 296.0k vehicles in 2029.
  • The volume weighted average price of Small Cars market in 2024 is expected to amount to US$23k.
  • From an international perspective it is shown that the most revenue will be generated China (US$13bn in 2024).

The Small Cars Market segment includes economy passenger cars of an average footprint around 3.7m2 (40 ft2), an average mass around 1200kg (2680lbs) and a passenger/cargo volume between 2.4 m3 and 2.8 m3 (85 ft3 and 99 ft3). All key figures shown represent the sales of new small cars in the basic configuration in the respective year. Used vehicles are not taken into account, nor is adapted equipment for the new cars sold. The prices and revenues shown as well as the distribution of connectivity, drive types, autonomy levels, and average CO2 emissions are accordingly based on the basic models.

  • European Car Segment: B (Small Cars)
  • US Car Segment: Subcompact Cars
  • Chinese Car Segment: Category A
  • Also known as: Light Cars, Superminis

Example models: Citroën C3, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai i30, Kia e-Soul, Lancia Ypsilon, Mazda 2, Nissan Note, Opel Corsa, Peugeot 208, Renault Clio, Seat Ibiza, Škoda Fabia, Suziki Swift, Toyota Yaris, Volkswagen Polo.

In-Scope

  • Economy passenger cars - Small Cars

Out-Of-Scope

  • Small SUVs
  • Sports models
Small Cars: market data & analysis - Cover

Market Insights report

Small Cars: market data & analysis

Study Details

    Unit Sales

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Notes: The chart “Comparable Estimates” shows the forecasted development of the selected market from different sources. Please see the additional information for methodology and publication date.

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Analyst Opinion

    The Small Cars market in United States has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by changing customer preferences, market trends, and local special circumstances.

    Customer preferences:
    In the United States, there has been a shift in customer preferences towards smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. This can be attributed to rising fuel prices, increasing environmental consciousness, and the desire for more practical and affordable transportation options. Small cars offer better fuel efficiency, lower maintenance costs, and are easier to maneuver in congested urban areas. Additionally, younger consumers are increasingly opting for smaller cars as they prioritize affordability and sustainability.

    Trends in the market:
    One of the key trends in the Small Cars market in United States is the increasing popularity of electric and hybrid vehicles. With advancements in technology and the availability of government incentives, more consumers are considering eco-friendly options. Electric and hybrid small cars offer lower emissions, reduced fuel costs, and a more sustainable transportation solution. This trend is expected to continue as automakers invest in research and development to improve the range and affordability of electric vehicles. Another trend in the market is the rise of compact SUVs. While not traditional small cars, compact SUVs offer a similar level of practicality and fuel efficiency, while also providing additional cargo space and a higher driving position. This has attracted consumers who value versatility and the perception of safety and ruggedness that SUVs offer. Compact SUVs have become a popular choice for families and individuals who require more space but still want the benefits of a smaller vehicle.

    Local special circumstances:
    The United States has a vast and well-developed road infrastructure, making small cars a suitable choice for daily commuting and city driving. The compact size of small cars allows for easier parking and maneuvering in congested urban areas. Additionally, the United States has a high population density in many metropolitan areas, which further drives the demand for smaller vehicles.

    Underlying macroeconomic factors:
    Several macroeconomic factors have contributed to the growth of the Small Cars market in United States. Rising fuel prices have made fuel efficiency a priority for consumers, leading them to choose smaller cars. Additionally, stricter emission regulations and government incentives for eco-friendly vehicles have encouraged the adoption of electric and hybrid small cars. The overall economic stability and growth in the United States have also played a role, as consumers have more disposable income to invest in vehicles. In conclusion, the Small Cars market in United States has experienced growth due to changing customer preferences, market trends such as the popularity of electric and hybrid vehicles, local special circumstances like the need for practical and affordable transportation in urban areas, and underlying macroeconomic factors such as rising fuel prices and government incentives. This market is expected to continue evolving as automakers innovate and consumers prioritize fuel efficiency and sustainability.

    Technical Specifications

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Notes: Level 0: No automation and very limited driver assistance in the form of automatic emergency braking or blind-spot warning. Level 1: Driver assistance such as cruise control or lane centering. Level 2: Partial automation, including brake and steering support. Level 3: Conditional automation in which the vehicle can perform most driving tasks. In certain scenarios, human intervention is still needed.

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Revenue

    Notes: Data was converted from local currencies using average exchange rates of the respective year.

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Price

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Global Comparison

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Methodology

    Data coverage:

    The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the sales of new passenger cars. Data on the specifications of the sold vehicles is based on the base models of the respective makes.

    Modeling approach:

    Market sizes are determined through a bottom-up approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use company reports and websites, vehicle registries, car dealers, and environment agencies among other sources. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP and car stock per capita. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

    Forecasts:

    In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, we use the ARIMA model for the Passenger Cars market. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

    Additional notes:

    The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year. In some cases, the data is updated on an ad hoc basis (e.g., when new, relevant data has been released or significant changes within the market have an impact on the projected development).

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