There are several automotive companies located around the world, but the biggest provide most of the cars around the world. Naturally, there are three American automotive companies located in the top five, but no American companies take the top spot. These companies all have a long and varied history that has seen good times and bad times.

One of the darkest times for the auto industry was 2008 and 2009. During this time, three companies that used to dominate the auto industry suffered huge losses. GM and Ford needed to file for bankruptcy protection as a result, allowing the government of the United States to take control of the companies thanks to multi-billion dollar bailouts. How are they doing now? Is the auto industry recovering?