Top Women in EV is a weeklong campaign created by EV news outlet ElectricDrives to celebrate the achievements of women in the EV industry.
As we celebrate Top Women in EV this year, we thought it was important to acknowledge the remarkable contributions women have made in the automotive sector as a whole. You may not be aware, but throughout history, women have been pivotal in shaping the automotive industry, influencing everything from design to engineering and new innovations.
Therefore, each day this week, we’re recognising notable female figures that have had a major impact on the automotive industry since it first began. Visit this blog and our socials each day this week from 3rd – 7th March to discover a different figure and how they revolutionised the automotive industry.
Florence Lawrence
Florence Lawrence, born on January 2, 1886, was a renowned silent film actress who also had a talent for innovation. In a time when the male-dominated auto industry was largely unyielding, Lawrence’s ingenuity shone brightly. She is credited with inventing the first auto signalling arm, a mechanism designed to improve safety on the roads. This innovative device consisted of a mechanical arm that extended from the side of the vehicle to indicate a driver’s intention to turn or change lanes. Lawrence’s invention was a significant leap forward, as it addressed a pressing need for clearer communication between drivers on increasingly crowded roads. Her creative approach paved the way for the development of modern-day turn signals, which are now a standard feature in vehicles around the globe. Beyond her technical contributions, Lawrence’s work exemplifies how women can break barriers in traditionally male-centric fields, and her legacy continues to inspire future generations of women in both automotive innovation and broader technology sectors.
Dorothée Pullinger
Dorothée Pullinger, born on January 13, 1894, was a pioneering figure in the automotive industry, recognised for her innovative spirit and commitment to addressing the unique needs of women drivers. In a time when the automotive industry was predominantly male-dominated, Pullinger broke through barriers by designing the Galloway, the first car specifically tailored for women. Pullinger’s work signified a critical acknowledgment of women as active participants in the automotive world. Her contributions extend beyond the Galloway; she championed broader involvement of women in engineering and manufacturing, inspiring future generations of female automotive professionals. Through her work, Dorothée Pullinger laid the groundwork for a more inclusive automotive industry, showcasing how women’s perspectives can lead to significant advancements in design and functionality.
Mary Anderson
Mary Anderson, born on February 19, 1866, in Alabama, was a remarkable inventor whose ingenuity revolutionised automobile safety with her creation of the windscreen wiper. While visiting New York City in 1902, she noticed how difficult it was for drivers to see during rainy weather, as the windshield would become obscured. Inspired by this observation, Anderson designed a lever-operated device that allowed the driver to wipe the windscreen clean with a rubber blade, significantly improving visibility. She patented her invention in 1903. Although the windscreen wiper wasn’t widely adopted until later, her pioneering work laid the groundwork for modern windshield cleaning systems, highlighting the crucial role of women inventors in shaping the automotive industry. Anderson’s contribution not only enhanced driving safety but also marked a significant step toward recognising women’s capabilities in engineering and innovation.
Margaret Wilcox
Margaret Wilcox, born in 1838, was a noteworthy inventor who made a significant contribution to the automotive industry with her groundbreaking invention of the first car heater. Growing up in a time when few women had access to formal education in engineering or technology, Wilcox defied societal norms to pursue her scientific and mechanical interests. Her innovative design for an automobile heating system not only enhanced passenger comfort during cold weather, but also represented a pivotal advancement in automotive engineering. By using the heat generated by the engine to warm the interior of the vehicle, her invention laid the groundwork for the modern car heaters we rely on today.
Bertha Benz
Bertha Benz, born on 3rd May 1849, was a trailblazing figure in the automotive industry. She was the first person in history to drive an automobile over a long distance. In 1888, she drove her husband’s vehicle 65 miles from Mannheim to Pforzheim in Germany. This bold endeavour was not merely a test of her husband’s invention, the Benz Patent-Motorwagen; it was also a groundbreaking act of innovation and courage that showcased the practicality of motorised vehicles to the world. In addition to this, Bertha was also the inventor of brake linings, the part of the brake that comes into contact with the rotor or drum, providing friction that stops the wheel from moving. It’s clear that she was a woman of many talents!
Looking to the future
As the EV industry continues to develop, it’s crucial to recognise that the voices of women in the EV industry are leading us toward an innovative and balanced landscape, reminding us that diversity is not just a goal, but a vital ingredient for success in the evolving world of electric vehicles. As society progresses, women are stepping into leadership and technical roles, driving advancements in engineering, design, construction and more, ensuring that the growth of electric mobility reflects the values and needs of a broader population. Let’s continue to celebrate their achievements and continue to support the women who are redefining the EV industry for generations to come.
Sources:
https://www.exclusivemotorcarsmd.com/blog/women-pioneers-trailblazers-automotive-industry#OleF2amN96
https://engineeringhalloffame.org/profile/dorothee-aurelie-m-pullinger
https://www.bmw.com/en/automotive-life/11-key-women-in-automotive-history.html
https://sellmyclassic.co.uk/famous-women-motoring-innovations-automotive-industry/
