Automotive Industry Sees Modest Growth Ahead, Despite Weaker First Half Performance. As the United States gears up for the second half of the year, analysts are predicting a slight uptick in light-vehicle sales, with forecasts suggesting a 4.4 to 8 percent increase in June. This modest growth comes as a welcome respite for the industry, which is expected to experience a weaker overall performance in the first half of the year compared to 2025. The industry's resilience will be closely watched, particularly in light of ongoing economic uncertainty and shifting consumer preferences.
U.S. light-vehicle sales are forecast to rise 4.4 to 8 percent in June, capping a first half that will be weaker overall compared to 2025, analysts say.
