Both Ford Pro and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles have now won the International Pick-up Award (IPUA) three times, following the announcement and twin-trophy presentation at the Solutrans 2023 Gala Banquet at EuroExpo, Lyon, France on Wednesday 22 November.
While the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok completed their ‘hat-trick’ of IPUA victories, this time it was shared between the two brands and models. This was the first time that this has occurred since the global honour was established in 2010.
“Following the IPUA 2023 Group Tests, held in Greece last month, it was impossible to separate the two models from each other, as both the new Ranger and Amarok were co-developed and are made at the Ford factory in South Africa. Although a collaboration project, each manufacturer has managed to maintain their unique styling and driving traits, which customers will testify,” explained Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman, IPUA jury.
This seventh running of the IPUA sees the sixth generation Ranger adding to the titles won in 2013 and 2020, while the original Amarok won the inaugural trophy in 2011 and again in 2018 with the upgraded version.
For Ford Pro, the Solutrans Gala Banquet recorded a significant double in securing the IVOTY for the Transit Custom, to repeat the feat with the IPUA in 2020.
Commenting prior to the handover of the twin trophy presentation, Hans Schep, General Manager, Ford Pro Europe, said: “We are delighted that the Ford Ranger has been recognised by the IPUA jury for the third time, which is testament to its enduring appeal as Europe’s favourite pickup for the past eight years. The new Ford Ranger has the most comprehensive series choice yet, offering customers the on-road refinement and off-road capability to suit work days and weekends. It’s built ready for work and play.”
Likewise, Karl Bernqvist, Member of the Brand Management Board responsible for Procurement at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, was also pleased, stating at the event: “The Amarok is a pick-up that delivers reliable performance both on and off the road. It impressed the jury in both cases. The International Pick-up Award for 2024/2025 means the Amarok has already achieved the ‘treble’ in just 14 years of production. This demonstration of trust honours the entire team at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. We would like to say thank you!”
