The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) has named Toyota, Volvo and Mercedes-Benz as winners of its 2026 Innovation Awards, announced at the recent Vancouver International Auto Show.
The annual awards recognize standout automotive technologies across three categories: green, safety and technical innovation. Winners are selected by a jury of Canadian automotive journalists, who evaluate submissions based on consumer benefit, originality, cost and potential market impact.
“We are always proud to reward the year’s best new technologies with our Innovation Awards,” said Awards Chair Graham Heeps in a statement “Sometimes innovation is all about a revolutionary shift in thinking; at other times it is incremental improvement by a diligent team of engineers that delivers the greatest benefit to consumers.”
Toyota earned the Best Green Innovation award for the sixth-generation plug-in hybrid powertrain in the 2026 RAV4 PHEV. The system delivers improved performance and efficiency, along with an all-electric driving range of about 80 km, supported by a larger battery and DC fast-charging capability.
Volvo took the Best Safety Innovation award for its multi-adaptive safety belt, which adjusts restraint force and timing in real time based on occupant size and crash conditions. The system is designed to enhance protection for a wider range of drivers and passengers.
Mercedes-Benz was recognized for Best Technical Innovation with its quad-motor system in the all-electric G 580 with EQ Technology. The setup improves off-road capability and allows the vehicle to tackle steep inclines, highlighting the growing potential of electric powertrains.
