KEY POINTS
  • Some auto forecasters predict the industry will be smaller and more competitive in the coming years.
  • Bain and Company cites slowing population growth, changing consumer behavior and high prices as some of the reasons they're expecting automakers to sell fewer cars.
  • Analysts said auto sales could fall by more than 2 million units by 2040.

Ten years ago, a record 17.6 million cars, trucks and SUVs were sold in the U.S. Some forecasts say the country might not come close to that number again.

Analysts at consulting firm Bain & Company said several signs indicate the market is about to shrink even more. Falling birth rates, behavioral changes, high car prices and a growing array of alternatives could drive sales down by more than 2 million units by 2040, according to their analysis.