The global automotive industry is an important part of the economy. It produces vehicles that can efficiently transport goods and people across countries. These companies produce vehicles like cars, trucks, vans, and sport utility vehicles (SUVs). Many companies also produce all-terrain, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles such as buses and transport trucks. Unusual global reach is a hallmark of the largest auto manufacturers, which sell vehicles to both consumers and businesses around the globe. These large companies are mostly based in the three leading countries of the industry, Japan, Germany, and the U.S., but the 10 largest include one car company from Italy and one from South Korea.

Below, we examine the top 10 largest car companies by trailing 12-month (TTM) revenues. Companies outside the United States report profits semi-annually rather than quarterly. Therefore, the 12-month trailing data for companies reporting quarterly may be more accurate. This list only includes publicly traded companies in the U.S. and Canada directly or through ADRs. Data courtesy of YCharts.com.

Toyota Motor Corp.

• Market Cap: $183.3 Billion

Toyota is a multinational company based in Japan. It was the first foreign manufacturer in America to gain a significant market share by setting industry standards for efficiency and quality. Toyota manufactures vehicles, including cars, trucks, and minivans. The Corolla and Camry are just a few of the models. Lexus is the luxury car division of Toyota. Toyota also manufactures parts and accessories and offers to finance for dealers and customers.

Volkswagen AG

• Market Cap: $95.8 Billion

Volkswagen is a multinational automotive manufacturing company based in Germany. It produces passenger cars, trucks, and light commercial vehicles like buses. The Tiguan and Golf are just a few of the models. Due to declining demand for small cars, Volkswagen Beetle's once-popular compact car was discontinued last year. Porsche and Audi are two of Volkswagen's most well-known luxury brands. It also produces parts and offers fleet management and customer financing services.

Daimler AG

• Market Cap: $58.7 Billion

Daimler is a multinational automobile manufacturer based in Germany. Daimler manufactures passenger cars, vans, off-road vehicles, and commercial vehicles such as transport trucks and buses. Daimler, Mercedes-Benz, and FUSO are just a few of the brands it produces. Smart, among others, is also available. Daimler offers both financing and leasing options for dealers and customers.

Ford Motor Co.

• Market Cap: $27.7 Billion

Ford is a multinational automotive manufacturer. Ford develops, manufactures, and services automobiles, trucks, SUVs, and vans. The Fusion, Mustang Edge, Escape, and Ranger are just a few models. Leasing and financing are also available.

Honda Motor Co. Ltd.

• Market Cap: $43.7 Billion

Honda, a multinational automotive company, based in Japan, is known for its high-quality vehicles. It produces passenger cars, trucks and vans, all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, and related parts. The Civic, Accord, and Insight Hybrid are just a few of the models. Acura is the luxury car division. The company offers financial and insurance services. You should always research the company to ensure you get the best possible car insurance.

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG

• Market Cap: $49.5 Billion

Bayerische Motoren Werke is a multinational German manufacturer of luxury motorcycles and vehicles. It designs and produces vehicles under various brands such as BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce. The company offers spare parts, accessories, credit financing, leasing, and other services for retail customers.

General Motors Co.

• Market Cap: $45.7 Billion

General Motors is a multinational automobile manufacturer. General Motors designs and produces automobile parts, trucks, and cars. The company has been a pioneer in the development and production of electric cars, starting with the Chevy Volt, then the Chevy Bolt. It is represented by four major vehicle brands: GMC, Chevrolet Cadillac, Buick, and Cadillac. It also offers to finance for automobiles.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV

• Market Cap: $22.9 Billion

Fiat Chrysler is a multinational automobile company based in Italy. It produces passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. It operates under multiple brands, including Fiat Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Ram, and Jeep. The company offers financing services and components and metallurgical products related to automotive.

Hyundai Motor Co.

• Market Cap: $19.8 Billion

Hyundai is a multinational automobile manufacturer based in South Korea. The company manufactures passenger cars and trucks as well as commercial vehicles. The company's vehicle models include the Accent and Elantra, Sonata Santa Fe, Tucson, and its Genesis luxury division. The company produces parts and offers financing services.

Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.

• Market Cap: $15.3 Billion

Nissan, a multinational Japanese automotive company, is located in Japan. It manufactures passenger cars, forklifts, marine equipment, and other parts. The vehicle models include the Maxima, Sentras, Versas, Pathfinders, Rogue, Titan, and its LEAF electric car. Infiniti is the company's luxury division. The company offers financing and leasing services.