Is The Kia EV9 The UK's Best Large Company Car For 2024?

Kia EV9 Crowned Large Company Car of the Year 2024

In a significant win for the Korean manufacturer, the all-electric Kia EV9 has been awarded the prestigious title of Large Company Car of the Year 2024 by Auto Express. This accolade places the bold seven-seater at the forefront of the UK's business motoring scene, recognising its compelling blend of practicality, technology, and efficiency. The award signals a shift in fleet preferences towards spacious, family-friendly electric vehicles that don't compromise on style or capability.

Rivals Recognised: BMW iX and VW ID. Buzz Commended

While the Kia EV9 took the top honour, the competition was notably strong. The judging panel also commended two other electric vehicles, highlighting the quality of choice now available to fleet managers and company car drivers. The BMW iX was praised for its premium feel and impressive range, while the Volkswagen ID. Buzz garnered recognition for its unique retro-inspired design and versatile interior. The fact that all three top contenders in the large company car category were zero-emission models underscores the rapid electrification of the UK's corporate vehicle sector, driven in part by the significant Benefit-in-Kind tax advantages for EVs.

What Makes a Winning Large Company Car?

Securing the Large Company Car of the Year award requires a vehicle to excel across a wide range of criteria crucial for business use. Factors such as whole-life costs, including purchase price, maintenance, and residual values, are paramount for fleet operators seeking maximum financial efficiency. For the drivers, comfort, safety technology, in-car connectivity, and practicality are essential for daily use and long journeys. The winning car must also offer a competitive range and charging capabilities to minimise downtime for employees on the road.

The Kia EV9's victory suggests it has successfully balanced these demanding requirements. Its ability to seat seven adults in comfort, combined with a long electric range and ultra-rapid charging potential, makes it a highly compelling package for businesses looking to transition their fleets to electric power without sacrificing space or functionality.

A Sign of the Times for UK Fleets

This award is a clear indicator of current market trends. The dominance of electric vehicles in the large company car category reflects the growing confidence businesses have in EV technology to meet their operational needs. For many company car drivers, the lower tax liabilities associated with electric models make them a highly attractive personal choice, further accelerating adoption. As more models like the Kia EV9 enter the market, offering a genuine alternative to traditional diesel-powered people carriers and SUVs, the transition towards an electric fleet ecosystem seems increasingly inevitable.

The recognition from Auto Express not only boosts the profile of the Kia EV9 but also serves as a valuable guide for UK businesses navigating the complex landscape of company car provision. It highlights which vehicles are considered the best all-round packages, combining driver appeal with sound commercial sense.