Leatherhead, 20 September 2024 – Hyundai’s prowess in the fleet sector has been reaffirmed with two prestigious accolades at the 2024 Business Car Awards, a celebration that highlights the finest in fleet vehicles and operators across the UK. The popular Hyundai KONA triumphed in the fiercely contested Best Compact SUV category, while the dynamic IONIQ 5 N clinched the Driver’s Choice prize, continuing its remarkable trajectory of success.
The Business Car Awards, recognized as a benchmark for excellence within the fleet industry, are judged by an independent panel of experts who evaluate various aspects of fleet vehicles, including performance, comfort, and suitability for business needs. This year’s ceremony took place at the Hilton Bankside Hotel in London, with members of the Business Car editorial team presenting the accolades.
KONA: A Compact SUV with Broad Appeal
The Hyundai KONA, including its fully electric variant, has emerged as a favorite among fleet operators and consumers alike. Martyn Collins, Editor of Business Car, praised the second-generation KONA for its diverse powertrain options, which include petrol, hybrid, and electric. The model boasts a spacious and well-crafted interior, distinctive styling, and, notably in the KONA Electric, an impressive range of up to 319 miles.
The KONA’s accolades are impressive: it was named Auto Express Car of the Year and later received the Medium Car of the Year title at the Company Car and Van awards. The KONA Electric also earned accolades, being recognized as the top electric car on sale by the Telegraph and winning Auto Express’s Best Small Company Car award. With prices starting at £26,040 for the 100PS KONA 1.0T and £34,995 for the KONA Electric, these models represent an appealing choice for businesses looking to enhance their fleets.
IONIQ 5 N: Performance Meets Practicality
The IONIQ 5 N has made waves since its introduction, combining cutting-edge technology with motorsport-inspired performance. As noted by Collins, the IONIQ 5 N delivers a driving experience that belies its two-tonne weight, with precise steering and impressive handling characteristics. It has garnered significant recognition, including the 2024 World Performance Car title at the World Car Awards and accolades from TopGear.com and Auto Express.
With a 2% Benefit-in-Kind rate, the IONIQ 5 N has become increasingly popular in fleet sales, particularly through Salary Sacrifice schemes, which provide a cost-effective way for employees to access high-performance vehicles.
A Commitment to Electrification
Tim White, Head of Fleet at Hyundai, expressed pride in the recognition received at the Business Car Awards, emphasizing the company’s commitment to electrification. “Hyundai has a very compelling product range,” White stated, “and it is immensely pleasing that the experts at Business Car have identified what a tremendous choice the KONA, KONA Electric, and IONIQ 5 N make for the very specific demands of the fleet market.” He further noted that Hyundai’s offerings are ideal for businesses aiming to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing driving enjoyment.
As Hyundai continues to innovate and lead in electrification, the accolades received at the 2024 Business Car Awards reinforce its position as a formidable player in the fleet market, catering to the evolving needs of businesses across the UK.
