In general, AJAC's administrators can identify most vehicles that meet the competition’s eligibility criteria, but several manufacturers operating in the country are also taken into consideration. That’s where the event known as TestFest comes in. Quite different from what it used to be (back when organizing it cost a small fortune), TestFest is now more relaxed, allowing participants—about forty journalists recognized as highly active in the field—to drive more new models on public roads than on a racetrack.

This year, for the second time, the Festival took place north of Toronto in Mono, in a picturesque wine country setting. Several manufacturers took the opportunity to let attending journalists test-drive vehicles that are harder to access at this time of year. Among them was the German brand Porsche, which not only brought three of its latest models (including a new hybrid 911), and American automaker Lucid, which showcased its new Gravity SUV.

While journalists drove these vehicles on country roads and some faster provincial routes, a few automotive accessory suppliers—like Continental tires—presented their latest innovations in the meeting room. Others, like Toyo (tires), sponsored the event while meeting journalists on site. The IVY group was in charge of charging the electric vehicles. Lastly, oil company Shell once again sent its presenter, Sean Nguyen, to brief us on the upcoming PC-12 engine oil formula. Shell was also the sponsor of the AJAC Annual General Meeting, which took place the day before the event.

This nearly three-day event served as a launchpad for the participating journalists, who must first vote for an initial group of five “winners” per category. These will then be presented, just like last year, at the Montreal Auto Show. Journalists will then return to their computers for a second round of voting that will guide them toward selecting the final winners in four categories. The “Grand Prizes” will be officially announced at the Toronto Auto Show this coming February.

Note that AJAC will also carry out a complementary program requiring a select group to choose the “Innovations of the Year.” L’Automobile will be following the entire process to keep you informed of the results.