Five Women of Automotive Strength

Historically, we've seen and thought of the automotive industry as a male dominated arena. We know that so many incredible and innovative achievements have come out of this space, that have impacted other areas of life. We need to keep in mind that all of these could not have been as significantly successful without the brilliant minds of various women who didn't take no for an answer and instead, took charge.

In celebration of Women's Day, we'd like to honour a few of the women who contributed to the start of the automotive era as well as those who are currently making waves in such an exciting and progressive industry.

Here are our favourite Five Women of Automotive Strength.

1. Bertha Benz

We're quite certain that the surname rings a bell. Bertha Benz was much more than just "the wife of Carl Benz".

This daring woman was the reason Mercedez-Benz so seamlessly got introduced into the market and was considered such a success. Not only did she invest a great sum of her own money into this project, she also took to the tar (or rather, gravel) and became the first person to take a Mercedez on an official roadtrip.

The thought of driving a newly built invention on such treacherous roads was a daunting thought for most. Many members of the public were skeptical around the power of this automobile, but not the brave Bertha Benz. In August 1888, Bertha completed her trip across the country's rocky roads with her two children in tow - all to prove (and advertise) the success of her husband's invention. What a woman to have by your side!

2. Cl?renore Stinnes

A spunky 26-year old Cl?renore Stinnes was the first person to ever do an "around the world" trip in a car. The journey took her just over 25 months to complete, in a 34.5hp Adler Standard 6.

Despite the dangerous unknown territories and capabilities for a trip of this nature, her determination to earn this title drove her engine forward and placed her name into the history books.

3. Mary Barra

All eyes were on Mary Barra as she became the first woman to obtain the position of CEO at General Motors. She has held this top title since 2014 and has truly made her mark in many ways.

Since being appointed as CEO, General Motors raised brows around the world as they became one of the two global companies that actively ensured no gender pay gap. Apart from this, they also achieved the no.1 status on the 2018 Global Report on Gender Equality.

A true woman of strength who has used her leadership skills to change the ways of the world and make the workplace a better and fairer playing ground.

4. Ruby Akhtar

After graduating from university, Ruby Akhtar was determined to be involved in problem-solving discussions and innovative initiatives that would inspire the youth.

After enrolling into a master's course in Engineering Management, Ruby went on to work in the automotive industry and immersed herself in projects that focused on the production of next-generation low-carbon technology.

One of the initiatives she leads is to grow and strengthen the minds of young people in this industry - with discussions and activities beginning with primary school children. She has made it her mission to bring forth a more diverse group of role model representation into the automotive industry, ensuring more young people can be effectively inspired.

Ruby Akhtar - a bright young woman, implementing outstanding initiatives for future generations!

5. Jordan Brompton

Jordan is our modern-day woman, striving for an improved and more sustainable future for other females in the automotive space.

Beginning her work in the cycling import business, Jordan had a burning desire to create more opportunities for young women like herself. This undeniable drive quickly gave birth to Myenergi - a company that designs and manufactures renewable products. It's well known for ideating and building the world’s first eco-smart electric vehicle charging device.

It's evident that women are a strong and steady driving force behind the success of numerous automotive strides.

From the engineering, funding and driving the road less travelled (literally), to taking up global leadership positions and changing the name of the game forever. We're so inspired by these women and proud to operate in a space that they've been so influential in.

To our five Automotive Women of Strength and to all the women reading this article, we acknowledge and honour you not only today, but everyday.

Happy Women's Day!