The UK Car of the Year Awards (UKCOTY) is thrilled to announce that Start Rescue, one of the UK’s leading breakdown and vehicle recovery providers, will serve as headline sponsor for the 2026 and 2027 Awards. This partnership brings together two organisations dedicated to serving UK motorists with expertise, trust, and a commitment to excellence.
Start Rescue has cemented its position as a trusted name on UK roads, recently securing its seventh consecutive Which? Recommended Provider accolade—a testament to the company’s unrivalled service, reliability, and customer satisfaction. By joining the UK Car of the Year Awards, Start Rescue brings a wealth of practical, real-world knowledge that will enrich the judging process and further enhance the Awards’ credibility.
John Challen, co-chairman and judge of the UK Car of the Year Awards, said:
“Start Rescue’s commitment enables the UK Car of the Year Awards to offer motorists fully independent recommendations on the best new cars available in the UK. Their partnership brings invaluable real-world insight to our judging panel. With daily experience supporting drivers across the country, Start Rescue provides reliability and performance perspectives that complement our mission of helping UK motorists make informed choices.”
Since its launch in 2014, the UK Car of the Year Awards has remained a wholly independent platform, dedicated to highlighting the very best vehicles on the UK market. Its judging panel comprises 31 experienced motoring journalists covering every corner of the country, ensuring that the awards reflect the needs and expectations of the UK car-buying public.
Lee Puffett, Managing Director of Start Rescue, said:
“Start Rescue is passionate about road safety, vehicle reliability, and providing UK motorists with quality service and advice. Supporting the UK Car of the Year Awards allows us to contribute to an initiative that helps drivers make informed, confident choices. We are proud to back such a respected and independent awards programme and look forward to growing this partnership over the next two years.”
Preparations are already underway for the UK Car of the Year Awards 2026, promising another year of expert-driven recognition for the UK’s finest vehicles. Past winners and further information about the Awards can be found at www.ukcoty.co.uk. For updates, follow @ukcaroftheyear on Instagram and @UKCOTY on X.
