Back in 1999, the Toyota Prius was released, making it the first hybrid vehicle. Five years later, in 2004, it won North American Car of the Year. Now, 20 years later, the Prius/Prius Prime has again secured such a coveted honor. What caused it to win all these years later? Continue reading to find out.

What is the North American Car of the Year Award?

The North American Car of the Year Award (NACTOY) is determined by a larger panel of automotive journalists. The NACTOY is designed to recognize the most outstanding new vehicles in their segments each year. The Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA) and the Automotive Press Association (APA) co-hosted the event.

Journalists come from the United States and Canada and look at over half a dozen criteria. Journalists use over a half dozen criteria from innovation, design, safety, etc. The award is unique because no singular publication, website, radio, or television station determines the winner.

Why the Prius Won

As judges deliberated, many kept circling back to the Prius/Prius Prime. In the end, the models' appearance and fuel economy helped secure the win.

One journalist judging the event, Matt DeLorenzo, gave his thoughts. He said, "The Toyota Prius and Prius Prime are not just handsomely styled hatchbacks - they represent the future of the automobile." "Of particular note is the plug-in version, which offers more than 40 miles of pure electric range, allowing most owners to skip regular gas station visits."

Upon winning, Mike Tripp, group vice president of Toyota Marketing, said, "The unique combination of sexy styling and industry-leading efficiency put Prius in a league all its own." He continued, "After nearly 25 years, Prius continues to leave its mark on the world…"

Another Win for Toyota

The NACTOY wasn't the only award the Prius/Prius Prime won during the 23/24 award season. In the months before the NACTOY, the model had secured 16 other accolades. Making 17 wins in total. With such innovation and subsequent models only getting better, the future is bright for Toyota.

Categorías: Green, New Inventory