The Automotive Industry in Texas
Texas is one of the largest vehicle markets in the United States and an increasingly important automotive manufacturing hub. The state hosts vehicle assembly plants, truck manufacturers, electric vehicle factories, and hundreds of parts suppliers. North Texas plays a central role, with major corporate headquarters, assembly operations, and logistics networks that move vehicles and components across the country.
Carrollton's location along Interstate 35E, the President George Bush Turnpike, and nearby rail lines makes it an ideal base for automotive parts distributors, aftermarket suppliers, dealership support services, and logistics companies. Here are ten of the best automotive manufacturers and suppliers shaping the industry around Carrollton.
1. Toyota Motor North America
Toyota Motor North America is headquartered in nearby Plano, bringing thousands of corporate jobs to the region. Toyota also operates a large truck assembly plant in San Antonio. Its presence anchors a network of suppliers and service providers throughout Texas.
2. General Motors
General Motors operates its Arlington Assembly plant, which produces full-size SUVs that are among the company's most popular and profitable vehicles. The plant is one of the largest employers in the Metroplex and supports many regional suppliers.
3. Ford Motor Company
Ford has deep ties to Texas, which is one of the largest markets for its F-Series pickup trucks. Its extensive dealership network, regional operations, and fleet business make Ford a major presence across Carrollton and North Texas.
4. Tesla
Tesla's Gigafactory Texas near Austin produces electric vehicles and serves as the company's headquarters. Its investment has made Texas a leader in electric vehicle manufacturing and attracted battery and component suppliers to the state.
5. Peterbilt Motors
Headquartered in Denton, just north of Carrollton, Peterbilt Motors manufactures premium heavy and medium-duty trucks. Its trucks are widely used by logistics companies, many of which operate distribution centers in Carrollton.
6. International Motors
International Motors, formerly Navistar, operates a truck manufacturing plant in San Antonio producing commercial vehicles. Its trucks serve fleets throughout Texas, including freight carriers moving goods through North Texas.
7. Denso
Denso is one of the world's largest automotive parts suppliers, producing thermal systems, powertrain components, and electronics. Its products support Toyota and many other automakers with operations in Texas.
8. Aisin
Aisin manufactures transmissions, body components, and electrification systems for automakers. Its partnerships with Toyota and other brands make it an important part of the Texas automotive supply chain.
9. BorgWarner
BorgWarner develops propulsion technologies for combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicles. Its components, including turbochargers and electric drive systems, are used by automakers serving the Texas market.
10. Bosch
Bosch is a global technology and automotive supplier producing sensors, braking systems, and driver-assistance technologies. Its aftermarket parts and diagnostic tools are widely used by repair shops in Carrollton.
Carrollton's Role in the Automotive Supply Chain
Carrollton hosts numerous automotive parts distributors, warehouses, repair shops, and dealership service providers. Its logistics infrastructure allows companies to deliver parts quickly across the Metroplex and beyond. The city's skilled workforce includes technicians, logistics professionals, and engineers who support both manufacturers and the large automotive aftermarket.
Economic Impact
The automotive industry supports high-quality manufacturing jobs, corporate careers, and small businesses across Texas. Assembly plants generate demand for parts, logistics, and services, creating ripple effects throughout local economies. Corporate headquarters like Toyota's in Plano attract talent and investment that benefit neighboring cities including Carrollton.
Automotive Industry Trends
Electric vehicles, hybrid powertrains, and battery manufacturing are reshaping the industry. Software-defined vehicles and advanced driver-assistance systems are increasing demand for electronics expertise. Automakers are investing in nearshoring and domestic supply chains to improve resilience. Autonomous trucking testing on Texas highways, including routes through Dallas-Fort Worth, highlights the region's role in transportation innovation.
Careers in Automotive Manufacturing
Careers include production, engineering, quality control, logistics, automotive technology, and corporate roles. Dallas College and other regional institutions offer automotive technology and advanced manufacturing programs that help Carrollton residents build rewarding careers.
The Automotive Aftermarket in Carrollton
Beyond vehicle assembly, the automotive aftermarket is a major part of the Carrollton economy. With millions of vehicles registered across Dallas, Denton, and Collin counties, demand for replacement parts, accessories, maintenance, and repairs is enormous. Carrollton is home to many parts distributors, collision centers, tire shops, and independent repair facilities that keep the region's vehicles on the road. Long commutes and hot Texas summers put extra strain on batteries, cooling systems, tires, and air conditioning, creating steady service demand. As electric and hybrid vehicles become more common, local shops are investing in technician training and specialized diagnostic equipment. Fleet services are also growing, supporting delivery vans and trucks operated by the many logistics companies based in Carrollton's industrial districts. This aftermarket ecosystem connects directly to the manufacturers on this list.
Conclusion
Texas has become one of the most important automotive states in the nation, and North Texas sits at its heart. From Toyota's North American headquarters and General Motors' Arlington plant to Peterbilt's Denton headquarters and Tesla's Gigafactory, these companies drive jobs, innovation, and supply chain activity that benefit Carrollton businesses and residents.