The electric vehicle revolution is accelerating—but women are still underrepresented on both sides of the wheel. Despite comprising nearly half of UK driving licence holders, research shows women make up only about one-third of EV drivers. Beyond the driver’s seat, they are significantly underrepresented in the engineering, energy, and mobility sectors shaping the EV transition, with women accounting for just 15.7% of the UK engineering and technology workforce.
This gap isn’t just a question of equity—it’s a question of adoption. When women’s perspectives and needs aren’t reflected in product design, charging infrastructure, or marketing, the industry risks alienating millions of potential drivers and slowing the move from early adopters to mainstream EV ownership.
To confront this challenge head-on, Global Women in EV Day launches on 10 February 2026 at Octopus Electroverse HQ in London, sending a clear message to car manufacturers, energy providers, and mobility innovators: closing the EV gender gap is critical for a successful, inclusive future.
Founded by Gill Nowell of Hosted by Gill, Global Women in EV Day is designed to go beyond celebration, creating a platform for visibility, measurable commitments, and practical action. “The transition to electric mobility gives us a once-in-a-generation chance to build a fairer, more inclusive industry—but only if we choose to design it that way,” says Nowell. “Global Women in EV Day is about recognising the women already driving this transition, and making sure the next generation sees that they belong here too.”
The initiative is backed by a network of Founding Partners spanning the EV ecosystem, from charging networks to marketplaces and mobility operators. Industry leaders including Autotrader, Octopus Electroverse, Zapmap, Zemo Partnership, The Green Cab, Sinewave, and EVA England have committed to amplifying women’s voices, supporting leadership pathways, and embedding equity into one of the fastest-growing industries in the world.
Ian Plummer, Chief Customer Officer at Autotrader, emphasises the broader impact: “Helping more women succeed in the automotive sector is a key part of our diversity and inclusion strategy. Joining campaigns like Global Women in EV Day allows us to share the lessons we’ve learned and support others in achieving their own ambitions.”
Rachel Beaton, Commercial Director at Octopus Electroverse, adds: “The transition to electric mobility must put all drivers at the centre, regardless of their gender or background. Hosting the first Global Women in EV Day is a moment for the industry to come together, amplify diverse voices, and commit to a more inclusive future.”
The benefits of inclusion are tangible. When women are engaged in EV design and policy, charging infrastructure becomes more accessible, affordability messaging resonates more widely, and marketing reflects the needs and lifestyles of all drivers—not just a subset. Melanie Shufflebotham, Co-founder & COO of Zapmap, says: “Supporting women to grow, lead and thrive in EV is essential to the success of the transition. Global Women in EV Day helps create mentoring and leadership pathways for the next generation.”
The movement resonates globally. In South Africa, for example, Amiene van der Merwe, Founder & Director of The Green Cab, highlights the broader societal benefits: “Electric mobility is not just about climate—it’s about access, jobs, and opportunity. Global Women in EV Day shines a light on the women building cleaner, more gender-equitable transport systems, and on putting women firmly in the driver’s seat of the green economy.”
The sold-out launch event in London on 10 February will feature the premiere of the Global Women in EV Day launch film, followed by panels on leadership, resilience, mentoring, and the future of clean mobility. From this inaugural event, Global Women in EV Day will grow into an annual celebration, spotlighting women across the EV ecosystem and driving practical, measurable change year after year.
As the EV sector races toward a low-carbon future, the message is clear: closing the gender gap isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s essential for getting everyone in the driver’s seat. Global Women in EV Day is setting the roadmap for a fairer, more inclusive journey.
