Out of a field of 21 new vehicles from around the world, the Tesla Model S was finally declared to be the World Green Car of 2013.
In 2004, the World Green Car Award was inaugurated to recognize and reward automotive excellence on the global scene. To be considered for the prize, a vehicle needs to be substantially new and in production for sale or lease to the public. Significant advancements in powertrain technology are required, resulting in improvements to fuel economy, emissions and overall environmental responsibility. Five green experts and sixty-six jurors eventually whittled the twenty one original entries down to three, including the Renault ZOE, the Volvo V60 PHEV and the Tesla Model S.
The experts noted, “The Tesla Model S … is a car from a startup maker that actually competes on its merits with vehicles from established global players. The Model S is fast and stylish, its high-end models offer more range than any other electric car, and … it can be argued that it is already the world’s most alluring green car that’s also practical and desirable.”
Some previous World Green Car winners include:
2012 – Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY
2011 – Chevrolet Volt
2010 – Volkswagen BlueMotion
2009 – Honda FCX Clarity
2008 – BMW 118d with Efficient Dynamics
