The UK car market is revving up for an electrifying transformation in 2024, as highlighted by Auto Express in their latest awards ceremony. With the ZEV mandate pushing for 22% of new car sales to be fully electric, the automotive landscape is experiencing a wave of disruption with new brands entering the scene. It's an exciting time to be a car enthusiast, as the industry evolves towards a more sustainable future.

“2024 was one of the most competitive years for the New Car Awards, which makes the fact that the new Citroen C3 scooped two category wins on the way to the overall win an even more outstanding achievement,” said Auto Express editor Paul Barker. “Citroen’s Advanced Comfort tech, applied to its suspension and the seats inside a spacious cabin, give the C3 plenty of appeal on its own. However it’s the prospect of a fully electric version, priced from less than £22,000, that cements its place at the top of a very impressive list of shortlisted cars.”

Auto Express recognized excellence in 26 categories, with a notable trend towards electric and plug-in hybrid models dominating the winners' circle, with 16 of the categories going to EV's outright, or models where a PHEV option is available. The shift towards electrification is evident, with many traditional petrol and diesel-powered models being outshined by their eco-friendly counterparts. Korean manufacturers Kia and Hyundai emerged as frontrunners, showcasing their commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Hyundai's impressive performance in the awards, including the repeat success of the Hyundai Kona and the groundbreaking win in the Performance Car category with the Ioniq 5 N, demonstrates the brand's dedication to pushing boundaries in the EV market. The Ioniq 5 N is the first electric vehicle to secure the category typically dominated by Porsche, surpassing models from Alfa Romeo and McLaren. The Citroen e-C3's victory further solidifies the growing appeal of electric vehicles, offering a winning combination of style, performance, and affordability.

As Stellantis gears up for further growth in the UK EV market, the spotlight is on models like the Citroen e-C3 to drive the country towards a greener automotive future. With an increasing focus on zero-emission motoring, these award-winning electric vehicles are not just setting new standards in performance and design but also paving the way for a sustainable and eco-conscious driving experience. The future of the UK car market is electric, and these exciting developments are just the beginning of a thrilling journey towards a cleaner and greener automotive industry.