The recently concluded 2011 Geneva Motor Show not only showcased the automakers’ latest vehicle productions and concepts, but it also unveiled the top three finalists for the World Green Car of the Year.
A sixty-six member jury chose the top three most environmentally-friendly cars among their earlier list of six green cars. Vying for the World Green Car of the Year title are the following:
• BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics Edition
• Chevrolet Volt
• Nissan Leaf
The Smart Electric Drive, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-Cell weren’t able to make the cut. The three were included earlier in the list but the 320d, Volt and Leaf edged them out of the competition.
But to even be nominated for the title is already such an honor, since the jury has imposed some strict criteria and only a few were able to qualify for the award. Out of the dozens and dozens of EVs, hybrids and natural gas vehicles, the jury only chose six cars which they announced earlier in February, only to wind it down to three this month.
To qualify, the company needs to manufacture at least 10 productions of the vehicle, released in at least one major market from January 1, 2010 to May 30th this year. Emissions, consumption and power plant technology were also considered. Lastly, the car had to be an all-new production, or at least minimally modified.
The winner of the World Green Car of the Year award will be announced on April 2 at the 2011 New York Auto Show.













