AUTOBEST is pleased to announce the successful handover of the grand prize of the inaugural AUTOBEST CONQUEST.

The lucky winner, Daniela Sudhues from Bad Laer, Germany, has officially received the keys to her brand-new Renault 4 E-Tech Electric, the vehicle that won the prestigious AUTOBEST “Best Buy Car of Europe 2026” title. The vehicle was handed over by Florian Kraft, CEO of Renault Deutschland AG, during a special delivery ceremony in Germany.

What made the competition truly unique was the element of surprise. Hundreds of thousands of European car users from the 32 AUTOBEST member countries engaged in the voting process, selecting their favorite finalist without knowing which model would ultimately win the AUTOBEST “Best Buy Car of Europe 2026” title – or which vehicle they could eventually win themselves. The initiative also generated remarkable international interest, with active participation recorded in more than 28 countries outside Europe, spanning key regions including Asia, South America, the Middle East and Africa.

Only during the live AUTOBEST CONQUEST Show, broadcast on 28 March 2026, were both the winning vehicle – the Renault 4 E-Tech Electric – and the lucky winner, Daniela Sudhues, revealed live to audiences across Europe. Receiving the keys to her new vehicle, Daniela Sudhues said: “Winning a Renault 4 is a fantastic feeling.

For me, the vehicle combines iconic status with modern electric mobility and fits perfectly into my everyday life.”

Florian Kraft, CEO of Renault Deutschland AG, said: “The Renault 4 E-Tech Electric perfectly embodies the successful blend of heritage and innovation. We are especially delighted that Daniela Sudhues, a winner from Germany, has had the opportunity to take delivery of this exceptional vehicle. We wish her many electric and, above all, unforgettable kilometres with her new R4.”

The first edition of AUTOBEST CONQUEST 2026 introduced a completely new concept to the European automotive landscape. For the first time in the history of the AUTOBEST awards, the European public played a decisive role in selecting the winner, with their votes representing 50% of the final result, alongside the votes of the 31-member AUTOBEST Jury.

Dan Vardie, Founder and Chairman of AUTOBEST, commented: “When we launched the first edition of AUTOBEST CONQUEST, we made a promise to European car users: that one of them would drive home the winning car. Today, we are proud to say that we have delivered on that promise. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to the entire Renault team for their outstanding cooperation, and commitment throughout this process. And, of course, congratulations, Daniela! We wish you many safe, memorable and enjoyable journeys with your new Renault 4 E-Tech Electric!”

The first edition officially concluded with the AUTOBEST CONQUEST Show, becoming the largest independent live motoring entertainment event of its kind in Europe. Bringing together automotive brands, journalists, industry professionals and European consumers in an innovative interactive format, the project demonstrated not only strong communication impact but also the significant international scalability and long-term strategic potential of the AUTOBEST CONQUEST platform.

The Renault 4 E-Tech Electric earned the title of AUTOBEST “Best Buy Car of Europe 2026” thanks to its outstanding combination of attractive design, everyday practicality, advanced technology and excellent value for money. Its victory reflected the confidence of both the AUTOBEST Jury and thousands of European motorists who participated in the public vote.

AUTOBEST warmly congratulates Daniela Sudhues on becoming the first-ever winner of the AUTOBEST CONQUEST grand prize and thanks Renault for its excellent partnership in bringing this landmark initiative to a successful conclusion.

The success of this inaugural edition confirms AUTOBEST CONQUEST as a unique platform that strengthens the connection between Europe’s automotive industry and European consumers, opening a new chapter in how independent automotive awards engage with the public.

About AUTOBEST

The AUTOBEST jury represents 32+1 European countries (Russia remains suspended), making it the largest independent motoring jury both in Europe and globally in terms of represented nations.

The AUTOBEST jury pays close attention to the automotive industry’s efforts. Investments, new automotive job opportunities, funds for green cars and technologies, and support for different regions of Europe are all carefully assessed by the jury. New in-car technologies and connectivity are also under continuous scrutiny.

For more information, please visit www.autobest.org.

ENDS

Contact

Andreea Oglan
PR Coordinator, AUTOBEST
pr@autobest.org