Electric cars dominate Business Car 2024 Awards

The all-new MINI Cooper, offered with both electric and combustion-engine options, claimed the prestigious title of Overall Business Car of the Year 2024. Judges praised its simplified styling, high-tech, retro-influenced interior, and impressive 250-mile electric range. The MINI Cooper's blend of premium feel, driving enjoyment, and practicality make it an attractive choice for fleet operators.

The Škoda Enyaq claimed the prize of Best Medium SUV at the 2024 Business Car Awards. This award comes three years after the Enyaq won the overall Car of the Year title from Business Car, and having claimed numerous prestigious awards since. The Enyaq range has never been stronger, having received multiple upgrades for 2024, including more power and performance, improved thermal management of the battery for increased driving range and faster charging times, as well as revised in-car infotainment technology.

The Hyundai KONA Electric stood out among its competitors, winning the Best Compact SUV award - impressing judges with its practicality, futuristic design, and impressive range. Boasting up to 319 miles on a single charge, the KONA Electric offers businesses a compelling option for reducing their carbon footprint without sacrificing driving experience. It has also been recognised for its spacious and well-built interior, and advanced tech features.

The high-performance Hyundai IONIQ 5 N continued its winning streak by securing the Driver's Choice Award. This accolade is particularly noteworthy considering it triumphed against significantly more expensive offerings from established luxury and sports car manufacturers. Judges praised the IONIQ 5 N's dynamic capabilities, highlighting its precise steering, impressive handling, and comfortable ride quality.

Although not yet available for purchase, the upcoming Renault 5 E-Tech 100% Electric garnered the "One To Watch" award. This recognition highlights the car's potential to be a major player in the B-segment electric vehicle market. Combining an iconic design with a cutting-edge electric powertrain, the Renault 5 E-Tech 100% Electric promises to deliver a blend of driver engagement, practicality, and fun. With a targeted starting price under £25,000 and a driving range of up to 248 miles (pending WLTP certification), it's sure to be a competitive offering when it launches in early 2025.

Kia solidified its position in the electric SUV market with the EV9 winning the "Best Premium Large SUV" award. This win highlights the growing acceptance of premium electric vehicles Kia's offering impressed judges with its practicality, distinctive design, and impressive efficiency. Notably, more than 60% of Kia EV9 sales in 2024 have been to fleet and business customers, capitalizing on its 2% BiK rate, up-to-349-mile range, and ultra-fast 800V charging capability.

The BMW i4 continues to impress almost three years after its original debut, receiving the award for Best Premium Car. Commenting on the win, Business Car said, "Despite more EV and ICE-powered rivals, none can still touch the BMW i4. Whether you go for the eDrive 35, or the range-topping M50, the excellent electric range is trustworthy, it oozes driver appeal, and it's practical with the hatchback design."

The BMW i5, the electric version of the 5 Series, was also recognised as the Best Executive Car. This win highlights the growing range of high-quality electric executive vehicles available to businesses.

These award wins by Hyundai, Renault, Kia, and BMW signal a clear trend towards electric vehicles gaining significant traction within the UK fleet sector. Business car operators are increasingly recognising the economic and environmental benefits of electric vehicles, alongside factors like impressive range, practicality, and driver satisfaction. The growing number of award-winning electric models ensures businesses have a wider selection of compelling options to choose from.