Volvo awarded as most dedicated car brand to women

Volvo Cars has received the 2025 Sandy Myhre Award from Women's Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY). Recognized as the car brand most dedicated to women, Volvo was awarded for its outstanding commitment to gender equality and efforts in empowering women within the automotive industry.

"HARI fully embraces Volvo's global efforts," says Ms. Maria Fe Perez-Agudo, Vice Chairman, president, and CEO of HARI, the official distributor of Volvo in the Philippines. "Our vision and values reflect Volvo's commitment to advancing the industry with women at the forefront."

Named after the New Zealand motoring journalist who founded WWCOTY in 2009, this award celebrates automotive manufacturers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to gender inclusivity across various spheres, including workplace inclusion, product design, and advertising.

It is also the only awards body in the automotive sector with an all-female jury: 82 respected women motoring journalists from 55 countries representing a cumulative audience of over 500 million, globally. This year’s jury recognized Volvo Cars’ long-standing commitment to women’s representation and safety.

For over 50 years, Volvo has extensively used real-world crash data to enhance the safety of its vehicles. In 1995, the automaker pioneered the use of anatomically accurate female crash test dummies to ensure that its safety innovations protect all occupants. In 2001, Volvo developed the world’s first virtual pregnant crash test dummy, integrating it into crash simulations in 2002. These advancements have been instrumental in improving road safety and saving lives for generations.

“Volvo Cars has been very committed to the integration of women, both in terms of wages and professionally. Volvo also strongly supports women not having to choose between family and career,” said Isabelle Rieder of Switzerland.

“For years, Volvo has been working to connect with (women), not only in the field of safety but also by promoting their inclusion in the workplace,” said Marta Garcia of Spain.

Finally, Swedish journalist Mia Litström writes, “Volvo’s partnership with programs, like Girls Who Code, further demonstrates their dedication to fostering the next generation of female leaders in technology and innovation.” The said program aims to close the gender gap in technology by encouraging underrepresented groups to pursue tech careers.