Once upon a time, American factories were iconic symbols of industrial prowess, where raw materials flowed in one end and finished products emerged from the other. These factories produced a wide array of goods including automobiles, sewing machines, and household appliances. However, those days are now a distant memory, as the manufacturing landscape has evolved dramatically over the years.

The relentless pursuit of efficiency and profit maximization has led to increasingly complex manufacturing processes and global supply chains. A striking example of this is the production of wiring harnesses, which is often more cost-effective when done in Vietnam rather than in Detroit. This complexity means that the components of a single product, such as an automobile, can undergo multiple fabrication steps across various countries. In fact, some parts for cars deemed made in the U.S. might cross international borders up to seven times before they are finally assembled and ready for the consumer.

This shift raises questions about the meaning of labels like American, Japanese, or German when referring to vehicles. The lines that once defined national identity in manufacturing are now blurred. So, what does it actually mean to say a car is American-made in todays context? To delve into this question, automotive journalist Aaron Turpen analyzed the data for his article titled Made in America: Vehicles least likely to see impact from tariffs published on New Atlas. The findings were unexpected and challenge long-held perceptions.

For almost four decades, the Ford F-150 has held the title of not only the best-selling pickup truck but also the best-selling vehicle in the United States. Yet, according to Turpens research, it does not hold the title of the most American-built vehicle. That honor surprisingly goes to the Honda Ridgeline. This vehicle, which features a U.S.-made engine and transmission and is assembled at Hondas plant in Alabama, boasts a remarkable 72.5% U.S.-built content, making it the most American-made pickup truck you can buy.

In stark contrast, the beloved Ford F-150 has only a U.S.-built parts content of 32%, with some of that being sourced from Canada, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Following the Honda Ridgeline, the second spot on Turpens list for the most American-built vehicle is tied between two models: the Dodge Durango and the Tesla Model 3, each with a U.S.-made content of 73%.

The overall top ten list is an intriguing mix, predominantly featuring vehicles from Honda, Jeep, and Tesla, but it also includes an unexpected entry: the Volkswagen ID.4, which ranks fourth with 70% U.S.-made content.

As the automotive industry continues to adapt to changing economic landscapes and consumer expectations, the notion of what constitutes an American car is more complex than ever. These insights challenge manufacturers and consumers alike to reconsider how they view national identity in the context of global production.

To explore the full insights of Turpens findings, read the complete article on New Atlas.