Future Drive AutoShows

For decades, the automotive industry has been seen as a male-dominated space, but that’s changing. Women and non-binary people are not only key decision-makers in car purchases but have long driven innovation in design, technology, and sustainability. At FutureDrive Autoshows, we celebrate the vital role women play in shaping the future of mobility. From engineers and designers to marketers and event organisers, women are leading the charge in transforming the EV and automotive landscape – both in Australia and the world.

This International Women’s Day, we’re spotlighting trailblazers who’ve transformed the auto sector, celebrating the women behind FutureDrive Autoshows, and offering FREE tickets to women and non-binary people for the Melbourne and Sydney International EV Autoshows - this weekend only!

‍The Power of Diversity in the Auto Industry

The automotive industry is evolving, and women are driving change - literally. Women account for over 50% of new car buyers and influence more than 80% of total car purchases, making them a crucial market for automakers. Sustainability, safety, and technology are top priorities for this demographic, and brands that listen to diverse consumers will lead the industry forward.

As the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates, women are shaping the future - bringing fresh perspectives to engineering, design, and leadership to ensure new technologies meet the needs of all drivers. Yet, despite their impact on the industry, they remain underrepresented in STEM fields and leadership roles. Greater diversity fuels innovation, and by championing inclusion, the industry can drive real progress.

Women Shaping the Auto Industry

Women are leading the way across every aspect of the sector - from groundbreaking innovations to top-tier leadership roles. Let’s look at some of the trailblazers:

Mary Anderson – Inventor of the Windscreen Wiper

From as far back as 1902, women have played a pivotal role in shaping how we buy and use cars. That year, Mary Anderson noticed her tram driver struggling to see through sleet and designed a solution: the world’s first manual windscreen wiper. It consisted of a lever inside the vehicle connected to a rubber blade outside. Though initially dismissed, her invention became a standard feature in every car, transforming driver safety forever. Thanks Mary!

Mary Barra – CEO of General Motors (GM)

As the first female CEO of a major automaker, Mary Barra has spent more than 40 years at GM, pushing the company toward an all-electric future. Under her leadership, GM is developing new EV platforms, investing in battery innovation, and expanding its electric lineup.

Linda Zhang – Pioneering Chief Engineer at Ford

The Ford F-150 Lightning is one of the most exciting electric vehicles on the global market, and much of that is thanks to the leadership of Linda Zhang. After immigrating to the U.S., she joined Ford 30 years ago and has been a driving force in the company’s shift to electrification, leading the charge from hybrid powertrains to fully electric vehicles. But Zhang isn’t alone. Women like Megan Gegesky, who oversaw the vehicle’s launch, and Lisa Drake, Ford’s VP of EV industrialization, are helping to power the brand’s electric revolution.

Simona de Silvestro – Formula E Trailblazer

Formula E, the electric counterpart to Formula 1, is gaining momentum - and Simona de Silvestro has proven that women have a place on the track. She became the first woman to complete a full 12-race Formula E season and made history as the first female driver to score points in the championship. Her achievements have inspired a new generation of female racers, proving that motorsport isn’t just for men.

Celebrate International Women’s Day with FREE Tickets to our upcomng shows!

We’re inviting women and non-binary people to experience the future of mobility with FREE entry to the Melbourne OR Sydney International EV Autoshow - this weekend only!