Volvo Cars has been honored with the 2025 Sandy Myhre Award by Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY), recognizing the brand’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment in the automotive industry.
“HARI fully embraces Volvo’s global efforts,” stated Ms. Maria Fe Perez-Agudo, Vice Chairman, President, and CEO of HARI, the official distributor of Volvo in the Philippines. “Our vision and values align with Volvo’s mission to drive progress with women at the forefront of innovation and leadership.”
Established in 2009 by New Zealand motoring journalist Sandy Myhre, the award acknowledges automotive brands that actively promote gender inclusivity in workplace policies, product development, and marketing. As the only automotive awards body with an all-female jury—comprising 82 respected motoring journalists from 55 countries—WWCOTY highlights manufacturers making a meaningful impact on gender representation and safety.
Volvo’s dedication to safety and inclusivity spans decades. Since 1995, the company has utilized real-world crash data to improve safety for all occupants, including the development of anatomically correct female crash test dummies and, in 2002, the pioneering virtual pregnant crash test dummy known as “Linda.” Designed by Volvo engineer Laura Thackray, Linda enables researchers to study how pregnant women and their unborn children respond to crash forces, leading to life-saving innovations.
Volvo’s commitment extends beyond engineering. Swiss journalist Isabelle Rieder notes, “Volvo Cars has been highly committed to integrating women professionally and in terms of wage equality.” Spanish journalist Marta García adds, “Volvo has long fostered workplace inclusivity and safety for women.” Furthermore, Swedish journalist Mia Litström commends Volvo’s support of programs like Girls Who Code, which encourages more women to pursue careers in technology and innovation.
Experience Volvo’s Award-Winning Innovation
Discover firsthand the safety and innovation that define Volvo Cars. Schedule a test drive at Volvo Makati, Ground Floor, UDC Building, 2272 Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City, 1232. For inquiries, email [email protected] or visit www.volvocars.com/ph.
