The Toyota Camry has long been one of the most popular midsize sedans in the United States. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride, it’s a staple on American roads. But many consumers—especially those interested in supporting domestic industries—are curious: what percentage of a Toyota Camry is made in America?
This question is more nuanced than it might initially appear. While Toyota is a Japanese automaker, the company has a significant manufacturing and supplier presence in the United States. Over the years, Toyota has invested billions into American production facilities, creating jobs and integrating U.S.-based suppliers into its production chain. This article explores the origins of the Toyota Camry, its manufacturing locations, component sourcing, economic impact, and how consumers can interpret the “Made in America” label when it comes to imported vehicles like the Camry.
Understanding “Domestic” vs. “Imported” Vehicles
Before diving into the specifics of the Toyota Camry, it’s important to clarify what “made in America” actually means. A vehicle’s origin is determined by various factors, including where it was assembled, the percentage of domestic content in parts, and the sourcing of its components.
The U.S. Department of Commerce and the American Automobile Labeling Act (AALA) have systems in place that score vehicles based on the percentage of U.S. and Canadian parts content. However, there is no official federal definition of what makes a car “American-made,” which often leads to confusion.
The AALA requires automakers to label new vehicles sold in the U.S. with:
- Final assembly point
- Percentage of U.S./Canadian parts
- The country or countries where the engine and transmission were manufactured
These labels form the basis for answering how much of a Toyota Camry is truly American.
Where Is the Toyota Camry Made Today?
The current generation of the Toyota Camry (as of this writing, the 2024 model) is primarily manufactured in the United States. Toyota operates several plants across the country, and the Camry is now one of the models assembled domestically. Specifically:
Toyota Plants in the U.S. That Produce the Camry
The main Toyota Camry manufacturing site is the Kentucky Plant (KENT) in Georgetown, Kentucky. This facility has been operational since 1988 and is Toyota’s largest plant outside of Japan. It covers over 8 million square feet and currently employs more than 8,000 workers.
The Georgetown plant is responsible for a number of Toyota models, including the Camry, Camry Hybrid, Avalon, and Venza. With a production capacity of around 550,000 vehicles per year, it plays a key role in Toyota’s North American operations.
In addition to final assembly in Kentucky, the Camry’s engine and transmission are also manufactured in the United States. Most of the engines are produced in Buffalo, West Virginia, and transmissions are made in Tahoka, Texas.
How Much of the Toyota Camry Is Made in America?
According to the latest AALA data, the Toyota Camry scores highly for domestic content. For the 2024 model year:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Assembly | Georgetown, Kentucky |
| Engine and Transmission Production | Buffalo, WV and Tahoka, TX |
| Percentage of U.S. and Canadian Content | 75% or more |
| Country Sourcing of Parts | Japan, Thailand, China, U.S., Canada |
So, to directly answer the question: approximately 75% to 85% of the components used in the Toyota Camry are sourced from North America, with the majority of the vehicle assembled and produced within the United States.
It is important to note that certain components—such as electronic control units, electronic driver assistance systems, and some body panels—may still originate from Japan or other countries.
Historical Context: When Was the Camry Made in Japan?
Prior to 2007, the Toyota Camry was mainly imported from Japan. The vehicle enjoyed strong sales in the U.S. market even though it was built overseas. However, to meet growing consumer demand and reduce transportation costs, Toyota expanded its U.S. manufacturing operations.
The switch to U.S. production for the Camry came with the 2007 model year, when Toyota began assembling the sixth-generation Camry at the Georgetown plant. This strategic move not only allowed the company to supply U.S. dealerships more efficiently, but it also helped Toyota adapt to the preferences of American consumers with interior configurations, features, and ride characteristics tailored to the domestic market.
Today’s Camry lineup—offered with both gasoline and hybrid powertrains—remains a key example of Toyota’s localization strategy at work.
Toyota’s Investment in U.S. Manufacturing
Toyota has long seen the U.S. market as pivotal to its global success. Over the years, Toyota has made substantial investments in American manufacturing, supplier networks, and workforce development. Key highlights include:
Capital Investments
Toyota has invested over $28 billion in North America as of 2024. This includes plants for production, research and development centers, and supplier partnerships.
Job Creation
Toyota employs around 49,000 people directly in the U.S. Alongside this, it indirectly supports over 150,000 jobs through its supplier chain and dealership network.
Economic Impact
By building vehicles like the Camry in the U.S., Toyota contributes significantly to local economies. The company is also working toward a goal of 100% local production for the vehicles it sells in North America by 2030.
Breakdown of U.S. vs. Foreign Components in the Camry
While the Toyota Camry is largely built in the United States, it still draws from a global supply chain for various components. Here’s a snapshot of what you might expect:
Major U.S.-Built Components
- Body-in-white (frame and structure)
- Final assembly components
- Engine (3.5L V6) – Buffalo, WV
- Transmission – Tahoka, TX
Foreign-Built Components
- Hybrid system components (in hybrid models) – Made in Japan
- Electronic driver-assist systems (e.g., lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control) – Partially sourced from Japan
- Software systems for vehicle operation – Toyota’s global systems are centered in Japan but localized for U.S.
- Certain electrical components – Manufactured in China or Southeast Asia
Each of these components must meet Toyota’s global quality standards. However, by sourcing a significant portion of the Camry’s interior and structural components locally, Toyota is able to maintain both cost-effectiveness and reliability.
Why Manufacturing Location Matters to Car Buyers
For many consumers, knowing where their car is made has implications beyond curiosity. Here are some of the key reasons why “Made in America” matters:
Economic Support and Job Creation
A vehicle assembled in the U.S. helps support domestic jobs. More localized production means more employment opportunities in manufacturing, logistics, and dealership services.
Tax Revenue and Local Investment
Domestically built vehicles contribute to state and local tax bases, supporting infrastructure development, education, and public services.
Quality and Timeliness of Production
Having vehicles built locally can reduce transportation times, ensuring quicker delivery to dealerships and fresher inventory for buyers.
Retail Value and Incentives
Some states and federal incentives still favor vehicles with high U.S. content. Buyers looking to maximize value, fuel credits, or tax deductions may scrutinize this detail closely.
How Toyota Competes with American Automakers in Terms of Local Production
Looking at the broader domestic market, many U.S.-based automakers like Ford, Chrysler (Stellantis), and Chevrolet also proudly promote American-built models. For example:
Chevy Malibu
- Assembly: Kansas City, Missouri
- Domestic content average: 80%
Ford Fusion (discontinued but relevant)
- Assembly: Hermosillo, Mexico; Michigan plant
- Domestic content: Up to 85% depending on trim
Compared to the Toyota Camry, these vehicles are in a similar range. However, it is noteworthy that many modern supply chains are inherently global. It’s rare to find a car that’s 100% American inside and out—including traditionally American brands.
What Toyota offers uniquely is a proven track record in maintaining high domestic assembly rates while still retaining Japanese engineering DNA that contributes to durability and resale value.
Does the Toyota Camry Qualify as an American-Made Vehicle?
This is a matter of interpretation. While the Toyota Camry is assembled in the United States and nearly 75% of its content originates from the U.S. or Canada, it’s ultimately produced by a Japanese company. Therefore, different agencies or consumers might answer this differently.
The AALA gives the Camry high marks in U.S. production. For practical purposes, such as environmental impacts, labor market support, and vehicle availability, the Camry is effectively a domestically built car.
Still, those seeking a car made by an American parent company might prefer Ford, Chevrolet, or even Jeep or RAM. The trade-off is often between brand preference, vehicle features, and support for domestic industry.
Conclusion: The Toyota Camry’s American Roots Run Deep
The Toyota Camry has come a long way since it was first imported from Japan. Today, the Camry is a symbol of globalization meeting localization, with most of the popular sedan being assembled and built in the United States.
With over 75% U.S. and Canadian content, engine and transmission production in American facilities, and a final assembly plant in Kentucky, Toyota has ensured that the Camry aligns closely with American buyer expectations.
While not every part is made in America—such as hybrid components or certain electronics—Toyota’s contribution to the U.S. automotive industry remains substantial. Whether you’re a proud supporter of domestic manufacturing or simply looking for a reliable and affordable sedan, the Toyota Camry deserves serious consideration.
Ultimately, the Camry serves as a prime example of how global automakers can contribute to American industry while maintaining their international roots.
What percentage of a Toyota Camry is made in America?
Toyota calculates the domestic content of its vehicles using the “Domestic Content Index,” which is based on data from the American Automobile Labeling Act (AALA). According to recent data, the Toyota Camry has a domestic content value of approximately 75% for models assembled in the U.S. This means that three-quarters of the vehicle’s components, including parts and materials sourced from North America, are used in its production. The actual percentage can vary slightly from year to year depending on manufacturing sourcing strategies and model configurations.
Many of the Camry’s components, such as the engine, transmission, and body parts, are produced in North American plants. Toyota also works closely with a network of local and regional suppliers to purchase a significant portion of the vehicle’s parts in the U.S. While the labor, manufacturing, and final assembly occur in the U.S., some parts may still be imported from Japan or other countries, especially when it comes to advanced electronics or unique materials. Thus, the 75% figure reflects a well-balanced sourcing approach that benefits both Toyota and the U.S. automotive industry.
Where is the Toyota Camry assembled for the U.S. market?
The Toyota Camry for the U.S. market is primarily assembled at Toyota’s plant in Georgetown, Kentucky. This facility, which opened in 1988, is one of the company’s oldest and largest U.S. manufacturing plants, employing thousands of American workers. The plant produces a significant number of Camry models, with a portion of the output designated for export to other countries, as well as domestic distribution. The Georgetown plant plays a crucial role in Toyota’s commitment to North American manufacturing.
In addition to the Georgetown plant, some Camry components may be produced at other Toyota-controlled or supplier facilities located throughout the U.S. and Canada. While final assembly occurs in Kentucky, parts such as electrical systems, panels, and trim can be sourced from local and regional partners. Toyota’s approach of producing Camry models within the U.S. helps reduce logistical costs, enhance supply chain efficiency, and adhere to domestic content standards.
How does the American-made percentage of the Camry compare to other Toyota models?
The Toyota Camry ranks among the higher Toyota models in terms of North American content. Many of its sibling vehicles, like the Corolla and Sienna, also carry a high domestic value, but the Camry often maintains a consistent AALA score exceeding 70%. Certain hybrid or more specialized models may see a lower domestic content index due to unique components or higher reliance on foreign-sourced technology. As a long-standing and best-selling vehicle in the U.S., the Camry benefits from a mature manufacturing and supply chain network within North America.
Toyota has strategically localized the supply chains for high-volume models such as the Camry to maximize local sourcing and reduce dependence on overseas logistics. This helps establish a more resilient production process and supports American jobs. The domestic content varies based on trim levels, with certain high-end versions drawing on more imported materials for premium features. Still, overall, the Camry remains one of Toyota’s most “American-friendly” models.
What factors determine how much of the Camry is made in the U.S.?
Several factors influence the percentage of the Camry made in the U.S., including the location where parts are sourced and the final assembly site. The AALA calculates ratings by weighing where final assembly, engine, and transmission manufacturing occur, along with the percentage of U.S./Canadian content in parts used. This means that components fabricated in the U.S. or Canada contribute more toward the vehicle’s content score than those imported from other countries. Toyota also takes into account labor, plant investments, and partnerships that strengthen U.S. manufacturing capabilities.
The complexity of automotive supply chains ensures that no single figure remains static. For example, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, trade agreements, or new supplier partnerships can shift sourcing priorities from year to year. Toyota responds to these changes by adjusting supplier relationships or altering manufacturing plans while prioritizing the Camry as a North America-driven product. As a result, the percentage of the Camry made in America fluctuates slightly but remains relatively high.
Does the Camry’s engine or transmission impact its American-made score?
Yes, the country in which the engine and transmission are manufactured has a significant impact on the AALA-reported domestic content of the Toyota Camry. Currently, the 2.5L and 3.5L engines used in various Camry trims are produced in Toyota plants located in Alabama and West Virginia, respectively. Transmissions are also manufactured in the U.S., including at the company’s plant in Indiana. These facilities ensure that two of the vehicle’s most essential components are built domestically, which strongly contributes to the Camry’s favorable American-made percentage.
Having engines and transmissions manufactured within the U.S. helps elevate the Camry’s domestic content index and satisfies one of the AALA scoring criteria. The U.S. production of these parts shows Toyota’s investment in local infrastructure and its commitment to supporting American manufacturing. This domestic approach also makes the Camry appealing to consumers who prefer vehicles that support the local auto industry, even as final assembly may be limited to a single plant in Kentucky.
Are certain trim levels of the Camry made more in the U.S. than others?
The percentage of U.S. content can vary slightly across different trim levels of the Toyota Camry. Trims that feature more advanced electronics, hybrid drivetrains, or luxury components may rely more heavily on imported parts, which can lower the overall domestic content index. Toyota determines AALA scores on a trim-specific basis, so higher-end versions like the XLE or XSE may contain a greater proportion of foreign-sourced electronics or interior materials compared to more basic models.
However, most Camry trims remain relatively consistent in their domestic content score due to the majority of components being produced in North America. Toyota maintains a strong supplier base across the U.S. that can provide components for various trim versions. The key domestic score contributors — such as final assembly, engine, and transmission production — generally remain constant across trims, ensuring that all versions of the Camry are manufactured to a high standard of domestic assembly and parts sourcing.
Why does the American-made content of the Camry matter to consumers?
For many consumers, the American-made content of a vehicle like the Toyota Camry is an important consideration for economic and personal reasons. Supporting domestic manufacturing helps sustain jobs and local economies across the country, especially in states like Kentucky, Alabama, and Indiana where Toyota operates key facilities. Additionally, many consumers associate higher domestic content with quality control, local accountability, and a commitment to local communities.
The AALA score also provides transparency for buyers who prefer to invest in vehicles that reflect American-made efforts, even if the brand itself is foreign. The Camry, being a high-volume vehicle with a long history in U.S. production, serves as a strong example of how international automakers can integrate with domestic supply chains. Through the Camry’s strong domestic content, Toyota builds trust with American consumers and demonstrates a commitment to sustainable, local investment in the automotive industry.