March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the remarkable achievements of women across all fields. The automotive industry, often seen as a male-dominated sector, has been profoundly influenced by women who broke barriers, challenged norms, and left a permanent mark on the field. This version of Under the Hood highlights a few of these trailblazers who redefined what was possible for women in the automotive world.
Bertha Benz: The First Long-Distance Driver Bertha Benz, wife of Carl Benz, the inventor of the first patented automobile, played a pivotal role in proving the viability of the automobile. In 1888, she undertook the first long-distance trip in her husband’s Motorwagen, traveling 66 miles without permission or precedent. Along the way, she solved mechanical issues, made history’s first refueling stop at a pharmacy, and demonstrated the practicality of cars. Bertha’s journey not only validated Carl Benz’s invention but also showcased her technical ingenuity and fearless spirit.
Brehanna Daniels: Pioneering in NASCAR Brehanna Daniels made history as the first Black woman to work as a tire changer in NASCAR’s pit crews. A former college basketball player, Daniels entered the NASCAR Drive for Diversity program and quickly excelled in the demanding world of professional auto racing. Her presence in a highly exclusive space is a testament to perseverance and breaking racial and gender barriers in motorsports.
Margaret Wilcox: The Heating Pioneer In 1893, Margaret Wilcox invented an automobile heating system, a precursor to the car heaters we use today. Her invention made driving more comfortable, especially in colder climates, and demonstrated how women’s ingenuity could enhance the driving experience. Wilcox’s work exemplifies the early impact women had on automotive engineering.
Patrice Banks: Empowering Women in Auto Repair Patrice Banks is a former engineer turned entrepreneur who founded Girls Auto Clinic, an auto repair shop that caters specifically to women. Recognizing the gap in knowledge and confidence many women feel in dealing with car maintenance, Banks created a space that educates and empowers female drivers. She also wrote "The Girls Auto Clinic Glove Box Guide," a book designed to help women understand vehicle maintenance. Through her work, Banks is transforming the auto repair industry by making it more inclusive and accessible for women.
Florence Lawrence: Innovator of Automotive Safety Known as the “First Movie Star,” Florence Lawrence’s contribution to the automotive industry is often overlooked. A car enthusiast, she is credited with inventing the first mechanical turn signal and a brake signal. While she did not patent these inventions, they laid the groundwork for modern vehicle safety features. Lawrence’s passion for cars and her innovative spirit remind us that creativity knows no bounds.
Gladys Mae West: Pioneering GPS Technology Gladys Mae West, a mathematician and one of the hidden figures behind modern GPS technology, played a crucial role in developing satellite geolocation systems. While not directly in the automotive industry, her work revolutionized navigation and made GPS an essential feature in cars today. Her contributions to satellite data processing forever changed how we travel, making driving more efficient and accessible for people worldwide.These women, among many others, have shaped the automotive industry in unique and meaningful ways. Their stories remind us that innovation, courage, and determination can drive progress, no matter the obstacles. This Women’s History Month, let’s celebrate the contributions of these pioneers and continue to support and inspire the next generation of women in the auto industry.