"Spain is the 2nd largest automaker in Europe and the 9th largest in the world"

Automotive industry is a strategic sector for the Spanish economy.

9 multinational brands with 18 plants are established in the country. Spanish plants manufactured 2.38 million vehicles in 2024 with 44 different models that include 25 electrified versions.

The Spanish automotive industry represents 10% of Spain’s GDP and 18% of total exports. (including vehicles and auto parts). External trade surplus of vehicles reached €16bn in 2024.

The industry generates 9% of total employment, nearly 2 million jobs are linked to this industry.

The automotive industry invests on average an estimated €4 bn a year in expanding and modernizing plants, being one of the largest investors in R&D&I of the economy. Besides, Spanish automotive industry is one of the most attractive sectors for foreign investors. Spain was the 1st destination in Europe for new greenfield projects of multinational companies in the last five years. (by capital expenditure data fdi markets 2019-2024)

89% of the vehicles and over 60% of the auto-parts manufactured in Spain were exported worldwide in 2024. A total of 2,123,584 Made in Spain vehicles were exported in 2024. Europe is the main destination for the Spanish vehicles (93% of total exports in 2024). Other relevant destinations of Spanish vehicles were Morocco, Mexico and Turkey. The main destination for Spanish automotive components is the EU, with relevant exports outside UE including the UK, Morocco, USA, Turkey, Mexico, China, South Africa, Japan and Argentina.

Spain is a competitive location for new projects in the automotive and mobility industry. Among its competitive advantages: solid automotive industry ecosystem, productive and flexible plants, leading international position and market access, availability of highly qualified and competitive human resources, complete supply chain and high investment in innovation.

Sources:
Spanish Association of Automobile and truck manufacturers ANFAC  2025 publications and annual report 2023
SERNAUTO - Spanish Association of Automotive Suppliers. Equipment and component sector in Spain