Cars have always been about power and performance (traditionally masculine qualities), but modern vehicles also prioritize experience, personalization, and comfort (more feminine qualities). Throughout history, women have been instrumental in expanding the capabilities of the automobile, not only driving it to this point but also propelling it forward via innovation. As women occupy more of the automotive industry, they’re influencing more than what’s under the hood. 

In the article below, we’ll take a peek back at how pivotal women in the automotive industry have overcome cultural, structural, and systemic barriers to drive change. We’ll highlight past inventions we take for granted and future innovations that will lead us into the next chapter of the automotive industry. Drift luxury car fresheners reflect this shift toward redefining the modern driving experience, enhancing comfort, mood, and ambiance from the driver’s seat. 

Common Challenges Women in the Automotive Industry Face

Women are no longer just the secretaries, service writers, and accountants who work behind the scenes in the automotive world. Instead, they occupy multiple positions across various facets, leading others in a culture that supports diversity and skill separate from sex. 

• Engineering and design: Women contribute to conceptualizing and manifesting the interior and exterior of current and future vehicle platforms, from mechanical aspects to software systems. 

• Marketing and production: Tapping into new markets and reaching different populations lies at the core of what women in marketing and production accomplish with each project. 

• Research and development: Exploring untapped resources, materials, architectures, and technology helps women contribute to the automotive field through key research endeavors. 

• Motorsports: From driving the cars themselves to playing multiple supporting roles, women demonstrate they also have the insatiable need for speed. 

Regardless of where women choose to further their careers in the automotive industry, many face similar challenges that often limit their progress. While some of these issues have become less of a barrier over time, several still—unfortunately—remain. Here are some of the most common issues women continue to face in the automotive industry: 

• Gender bias

• Stereotypes

• Systemic barriers

• Underestimation 

• Lack of representation

• Struggles with work-life balance

• Unequal pay

Lack of mentorship also contributes to the glass ceiling in this key industry. Although several women strive to blaze a trail forward, cultivating the next generation of females in the automotive sector requires greater representation and an eye for the future. Without new women entering the industry, any progress made may be lost. 

Women Who’ve Made Automotive History

During World War II, many of the patriotic women who wanted to support our troops and keep the economy going jumped into the role of factory workers. From their legacy sprang forth several iconic women responsible for many of the inventions we take for granted today. These historical women include the following: 

• Bertha Benz: In 1888, Karl Benz’s wife completed a long-distance drive—more than 12 hours and 66 miles of driving—with her two sons. 

• Hedy Lamarr: A well-known actress, Lamarr also laid the groundwork for the GPS we rely on today. 

• Helene Rother: She enters the history books as the first female automotive designer. 

• Mary Anderson: Every modern wiper blade has this woman to thank for her invention in 1903. 

• June McCarrol: The painted lines that guide your path came from this woman’s mind. 

• Madam C.J. Walker: Historically speaking, men purchased cars to show off their wealth, but it was Madam Walker who took charge of her own fleet of vehicles, including a Model T, a Waverly Electric, and a sumptuous Cole Touring Car. 

• Dorothée Pullinger: In addition to becoming the first female member of The Institution of Automobile Engineers, Pullinger was also a successful race car driver. 

• Margaret Wilcox: This woman had the idea to redirect heat from the engine to increase temperatures in the cabin—the predecessor to modern automotive HVAC systems. 

With each woman’s name penned into automotive history, the story of women in the automotive industry continues. While only the women themselves could articulate the challenges they faced in accomplishing what they did, one truth remains. None of these obstacles stopped them from making their mark. 

Pioneering Women in the Automotive Industry

Building on the legacy of their fellow women are the following contemporary females, who continue to make history in the automotive world: 

• Mary Barra: Three decades of service saw her become Chair and CEO of General Motors, where she spearheaded the electric vehicle movement and GM’s plan to go fully electric by 2035. 

• Carla Bailo: She held the position of former CEO of the Center for Automotive Research.

• Linda Jackson: Former CEO of Citroen and current CEO of Peugeot, she earned Peugeot the Women’s World Car of the Year Award in 2022. 

• Denise Johnson: Head of the Resource Industry segment, Johnson is the group president at Caterpillar Inc.

• Danica Patrick: Danica made history as the first woman to win a major North American open wheel series race and finish in the top five at the Indy 500, in addition to earning the title of the first female to post the fastest qualifying time at the Daytona 500. 

• Leah Pritchett: One of the first female drivers on the NHRA circuit, Pritchett is a professional drag racer. 

• Raj Robinson: Commercial Strategy Manager at Bentley Motors, Robinson was recognized by the Automotive 30% Club as one of several Inspiring Automotive Women and heads up the Girls Into Bentley program. 

The Future of Women and the Automotive Industry

Several programs and networks help support women in the industry, connecting them and resources they can benefit from on multiple levels. For example, programs like Women in Ford and BMW’s Women in Leadership create pathways for women to grow into leadership roles through mentorship, training, and career development. 

In addition, networks such as Women@Daimler and events like the Women’s Automotive Summit foster community, visibility, and knowledge-sharing across the industry. Organizations like the Automotive Women’s Alliance Foundation provide scholarships and support to women pursuing automotive careers, helping build a more diverse and inclusive workforce from the ground up.

Driving Forward: How Women—and Drift—Are Redefining the Ride

The automotive industry benefits from all who contribute to it—and everyone can benefit from a Drift luxury car freshener. If you’re ready to see how you can elevate your ride and enjoy the innovations many women across history have given to the automotive industry, subscribe to the Scent of the Month Club today.