BYD Seal Named as a Finalist for Car of the Year 2024
China’s BYD Seal has earned a spot among the finalists for the prestigious Car of the Year 2024 award. The list of main contenders for victory was published by the competition jury, confirming the Seal’s standing among Europe’s most celebrated new cars of the year.
Among the other finalists were six notable models, including four electric crossovers. The lineup features the BMW 5 Series, the Kia EV9, the Peugeot E-3008/3008, the Renault Scenic, the Toyota C-HR, and the Volvo EX30. The winner will be announced at the Geneva Motor Show on February 26, a date that attracts automotive press, industry insiders, and enthusiasts from across Europe and beyond. Car of the Year jury
The jury for the European Car of the Year competition comprises 59 expert journalists representing 22 countries. Initially, 28 models were considered for victory before the field narrowed to the current group of finalists. Last year, the competition crowned the Jeep Avenger as the winner, marking the Jeep brand’s first electric crossover triumph in its history. Car of the Year jury
In Europe, the BYD Seal is available in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. The rear-wheel drive version delivers robust performance with a power rating of 313 horsepower. The all-wheel drive variant steps up with a more potent power plant, offering 530 horsepower and a claimed range of up to 570 kilometers on a single battery charge, depending on driving conditions. This model’s balance of performance and efficiency has contributed to its appeal in the growing practical electric vehicle segment. Car of the Year jury
As the competition progresses, observers note how the Seal’s mix of modern design, tech features, and electric efficiency positions it as a strong challenger within a field crowded by established brands and innovative newcomers. The car’s reception among jurors reflects broader trends in Europe toward electrification, crossovers, and a push for high-value, all-electric compact SUVs that can appeal to a wide range of buyers. Car of the Year jury
Beyond the finalists, industry watchers are following related developments, including the entry of new electrified models and regional production shifts. A recent trend highlighted in the market is the emergence of new electric crossovers from various manufacturers, each aiming to combine style, range, and everyday usability to capture consumer interest. Car of the Year jury
In related news, another automaker has reported progress on electrified vehicles in different markets, signaling ongoing diversification in electrification strategies. Market analysts emphasize the importance of range, efficiency, charging infrastructure, and software capabilities as key differentiators in the current wave of electric vehicles. Car of the Year jury