大美汽车制造业工人工资的历史；70年代前低工资，世界竞争力超强

1930s (Great Depression Era)

• Average hourly wage: $0.50–$1.00 per hour

• Annual salary: $1,000–$2,000

• The Great Depression led to widespread layoffs and wage reductions. Automakers like Ford and GM had to cut production significantly.

1940s (WWII & Post-War Boom)

• Average hourly wage: $1.00–$1.50

• Annual salary: $2,000–$3,000

• Wartime production boosted manufacturing jobs, and wages increased due to high demand for labor.

1950s–1960s (Golden Age of Automobiles)

• Average hourly wage: $2.00–$3.50

• Annual salary: $4,000–$7,000

• Strong unions like the UAW (United Auto Workers) secured better wages, benefits, and job security.

1970s–1980s (Oil Crisis & Recession)

• Average hourly wage: $5.00–$12.00

• Annual salary: $10,000–$25,000

• The 1973 oil crisis and increased competition from Japanese automakers led to industry downturns and layoffs.

1990s–2000s (Globalization & Automation)

• Average hourly wage: $15.00–$25.00

• Annual salary: $30,000–$50,000

• NAFTA and outsourcing impacted U.S. jobs, but wages remained strong for unionized workers.

2010s–2020s (Tech Advancements & EV Revolution)

• Average hourly wage: $20.00–$35.00

• Annual salary: $40,000–$70,000+

• The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and automation changed job roles, but union negotiations continued to support wage growth.

2024–2025 (Post-Pandemic & UAW Strikes Impact)

• Average hourly wage: $25.00–$45.00

• Annual salary: $50,000–$90,000+ (depending on seniority and overtime)

• Recent UAW strikes resulted in significant pay increases, with top-tier workers seeing wages surpass $40 per hour at companies like Ford, GM, and Stellantis.