VE nominated for world gong

Holden's billion-dollar baby, the VE Commodore has been nominated for the World Car of the Year (WCOTY) Awards 2007.

Only the fourth time the awards have been run (it kicked off in January 2004), the 2007 WCOTY will be announced at the New York International Auto Show in April 2007.

To be eligible, cars must be sold in a minimum of five countries spread over at least two continents.

The WCOTY is presided over by in excess of 40 jurors. Australia has one -- Newcastle-based, Bill McKinnon. McKinnon nominated the local large car for the award.

The WCOTY winner is adjudged on criteria including styling, performance, handling, comfort and utility. In addition, cars are assessed on value, safety and environmental responsibility, significance and their emotional appeal.

GM Holden boss, Denny Mooney, said the nomination reinforced VE Commodore’s status as "a truly global car."

“It’s an honour to have VE Commodore nominated the World Car of the Year. It is especially significant given our aim was to compete against some of the most expensive and most carefully crafted cars around the world," Mr Mooney said.

The full list of cars nominated for the 2007 WCOTY is reproduced below. To visit the WCOTY site click

2007 World Car of the Year nominees