Car of the Year: How is the winner chosen?

The annual European Car of the Year award, a highly influential prize in the European automotive market, is facing increased scrutiny. Concerns are being raised about the transparency and the composition of the jury that determines the winner, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the selection process.

The European Car of the Year award, officially known as the Auto Motor und Sport Prize, is determined by a jury of approximately 30 automotive journalists from across 25 European countries. Traditionally, the jury’s voting process has been somewhat opaque, with details about the weighting of different criteria and the specific voting methods rarely disclosed. Recent reports have highlighted a lack of diversity within the jury, raising questions about potential biases and the influence of specific manufacturers. This lack of transparency has fueled speculation about whether the award truly reflects the most popular and technically advanced cars on the market, or if it’s subject to undue influence. The controversy is prompting calls for a more open and accountable selection process to maintain the award’s credibility and ensure fair competition within the European automotive industry.

Summarized from the sources above. Read the originals for the full story.