Tables filled with auto industry executives and CEOs, flanked by a multitude of status, kicked off the 2024 New York Auto Show as the industry piled up to determine which six cars would be named winners of the 2024 World Car Awards.
The opening of the golden envelopes, with the effects collected and sealed by KPMG, drew applause and a bit of surprise as several contenders from afar took home the top prizes.
(To be clear, I’m vice-president and jury member of the World Car Awards. )
Among them, the redesigned Toyota Prius, named Global Car Design of the Year, ahead of the Ferrari Purosangue and Ford Bronco, each of which is exclusive and revolutionary. Chad Deutsch, accepting Toyota’s job, joked that it might be the only time a Prius would compete with Ferrari and win. However, critics and pundits have praised the new Prius design for its sleek, subtle exterior and more intuitive interior.
Another marvel was the designation of the Hyundai Ioniq five N as a World High Performance Car, beating out the BMW M2 and BMW XM. The all-electric sports car, designed with paddle shifters, rev tuning and sporty driving responsiveness, overcame skepticism in road tests. The World Car Awards judges felt it was a difficult and fun pleasure to deliver the thrill of a functional petrol-powered vehicle in an electric vehicle.
The Kia EV9 won two awards: the Grand Prix, World Car of the Year and World Electric Car. This 3-row electric SUV with up to 300 miles of range, smart interior highlights and a distinctive, futuristic exterior, outperformed the Volvo. EX30 and the BYD seal. A likely electrified edition of the hugely popular Kia Telluride, the EV9 plays with many of those main points: a vintage SUV silhouette, a spacious interior, and flexible space for cargo and passengers.
EV9 racks up awards for 2024; It also won the North American Auto and Truck of the Year award for Utility Vehicle of the Year and was nominated for the Best Family Car Awards in Parents. com for Best 3-row electric SUV.
An all-electric Volvo EX30 featured at the 45th Bangkok International Motor Show 2024
The Volvo EX30, nominated in 3 categories – World Car of the Year, World Electric Car and World City Car – took first place in the Urban category, beating out the BYD Dolphin and Lexus LBX. Focused on our populated cities, from Berlin to Beijing to Brooklyn, the Urban category recognizes innovation in engines and interiors that make driving in the city more comfortable and efficient. The compact electric Volvo was inspired by its interior space, interiors made from renewable and recycled fabrics and a rugged powertrain ideal for city streets and motorways.
2024 BMW Five Series Sedan Named Global Luxury Car for 2024
The redesigned BMW Five Series, available in petrol, electric or plug-in hybrid electric versions, won the top honour as a global luxury car. Competing with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, BMW’s sleek exterior Fine lines, subtle grille, jewel-shaped controls, and diamond-cut light bar that runs through the cabin create an enhanced experience. Combining functionality and luxury is BMW’s project and the Five Series offers a thrilling experience on the road: the petrol cinco40i generates 37 five-horsepower. thanks to its 6-cylinder engine and ifive M60 dual electric motor, 593 horsepower and 256 miles of driving range are generated.
2024 World Car of the Year Finalists: Kia EV9, Volvo EX30, BYD Seal
Each year, the World Car Awards recognize existing and long-term trends in the automotive industry. Compiling the reviews of one hundred automotive experts from around the world who review more than 140 eligible cars, new or redesigned each year, the consensus is clear: Electric cars have permeated the mainstream and have viable features for consumers of all categories and in most markets.
It is also evident that high-end design is no longer reserved for the luxury segment. The Toyota Prius’ victory proves that a compact, fuel-efficient car can also be beautiful and stylish.
And the popular giant app vehicles, which were once ignored by many critics, are nevertheless identified as worthy of the most prestigious awards.
All of this helps keep car designers and executives on their toes, surprising, charming and innovative, and hopeful of taking their place at the nominees’ table at next year’s awards.