Mexico’s Heavy-Duty Vehicle Production Grows

Mexico’s heavy-duty vehicle industry experienced an unprecedented surge in production and exports in October 2026, posting triple-digit growth driven primarily by strong manufacturing activity and shipments to international markets, particularly the United States. Meanwhile, the domestic market recorded more moderate growth, according to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI).

In October 2026, heavy-duty vehicle production reached 16,375 units, representing a 129.6% increase compared with the 7,131 units produced during the same month in 2025, according to data from the National Association of Bus, Truck, and Tractor Manufacturers.

According to the Administrative Registry of the Heavy Vehicle Automotive Industry (RAIAVP), published by INEGI, exports were the standout performer during the month. Heavy-duty vehicle exports reached 13,518 units in October 2026, representing a 158.9% increase from the 5,221 units shipped abroad in October 2025.

Alongside the strong export performance, the domestic market posted mixed results in October. Retail sales increased 5.1% to 3,162 units, while wholesale sales rose 26.8% to 3,301 units.

From January through October 2026, the positive trend in production continued, with 133,496 heavy-duty vehicles manufactured, representing a 17.8% increase compared with the same period of the previous year.

Within this category, the industry remained heavily focused on commercial transportation, with freight vehicles accounting for 97.8% of cumulative production, equivalent to 130,550 units.

Passenger buses accounted for the remaining 2.2%, with 2,946 units manufactured during the first ten months of the year.

Exports also maintained their upward trajectory. From January through October, Mexico shipped 111,912 heavy-duty vehicles abroad, representing a 20.3% increase compared with the same period in 2025.

The industry continues to maintain strong trade integration with North America, with the United States serving as Mexico’s leading export market. The country accounted for 93% of Mexico’s total heavy-duty vehicle exports, equivalent to 104,064 units.

Canada ranked second, accounting for 4% of exports, or 4,493 units, followed by Colombia in third place with 1.9%, equivalent to 2,138 units. Other destinations collectively accounted for the remaining 1.1%, or 1,217 units.

Despite the growth in production and exports, domestic demand showed mixed results during the January-October period. Retail sales declined 15.3% to 28,479 units, while wholesale sales increased 10.4% to 26,912 units.