May 21, 2025, Press Release from Autos Drive America:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Autos Drive America is hosting its 2025 Congressional Drive-In, bringing nearly 80 international automaker employees from across the country to Capitol Hill, including workers from Ohio. Workers from Honda will meet with members of Congress to discuss the impact international automakers are making in their state and on the U.S. economy through community investments and by providing quality jobs that empower American workers. International automakers have invested $109 billion in their U.S. operations and supporting more than 2.4 million American jobs.
“We’re proud to welcome employees from Ohio to Washington, D.C. to share their personal stories and the vital role they play in the success of international automakers,” said Jennifer Safavian, President and CEO of Autos Drive America. “Their presence on Capitol Hill underscores the economic and workforce impact our members have in the Buckeye State and across the country. As we face evolving trade and policy challenges, it’s critical that we continue to advocate for an environment that supports international investment, innovation, and high-quality jobs in communities throughout Ohio.”
This event highlights the significant role international automakers have on the U.S. economy, manufacturing nearly half of all cars in the United States – nearly half a million more than the Detroit-3. The participants will discuss the impact tariffs have on the entire U.S. auto industry with lawmakers and urge support for key tax provisions in the House reconciliation bill that would keep the U.S. automotive sector competitive. The group is also promoting the benefit of workforce development programs that prepare America’s manufacturing workforce for 21st century careers.
International automakers and dealerships contributed $19.2 billion to the state’s GSP in 2023. Between Ohio’s five manufacturing facilities and 368 nameplate dealers, $2 billion was contributed to state and local revenues.
Key stats highlighting the impact of international automakers in Ohio:
- International automakers, dealers, and suppliers have generated 165,075 jobs in Ohio, paying $12.1 billion in total employee compensation.
- International automakers have invested $15.9 billion in Ohio’s auto industry.
- International automakers in Ohio produced 477,225 vehicles in 2023, accounting for 59% of production in the state.
In addition to highlighting economic contributions, the Drive-In comes at a critical time for U.S. trade policy. Autos Drive America supports efforts that provide relief from harmful tariffs and urges policymakers to take further action to create a pro-growth environment for international automakers. Reducing trade barriers will help strengthen U.S. manufacturing, support American jobs, and keep the industry globally competitive.
###
About Autos Drive America
Autos Drive America represents the U.S. operations of international motor vehicle manufacturers integral to America’s workforce, communities, and economy. Autos Drive America’s members collectively produce nearly half the vehicles made in the United States. Together, they have invested $109 billion into their U.S. operations and support more than 2.4 million American jobs. As the voice of international automakers in the United States, Autos Drive America’s mission is to strengthen the U.S. automotive industry by advocating for trade and investment policies that expand jobs, trade, and economic growth in America.
