Journalist with a passion for civic stories and digital storytelling -- spotlighting local governance and the everyday lives it shapes.

The automotive world is charging full speed ahead into the electric era! In a stunning turn for the 2026 Car of the Year award, six out of seven finalists are electric vehicles (EVs) or have electric siblings, proving that the future is here and it's electric. The finalists were selected from a pool of 35 contenders by a panel of 60 automotive experts from 23 European countries. After rigorous testing in Denmark, these seven models -- Citroën C5 Aircross, Fiat Grande Punto, Mercedes CLA, Skoda Enyaq, Kia EV4, and Renault 4 -- have emerged to take centre stage. The Dacia Bigster is the lone non-EV in the lineup.

Judges will continue to test the finalists, with a joint evaluation in Spain before the decisive vote. Each juror holds 25 points, with a maximum of 10 points per car, and must select a minimum of five models, including their winner. Last year's crown went to the Renault 5, which triumphed over fierce competition. Expect fierce debate and anticipation as Europe's top car minds get ready to pick the ultimate winner this January 9. Is the future electric? This year's finalists make a sensational case!