- Women in the Driving Seat launched in 2025 to spotlight women’s experiences and successes in the automotive industry.
- Episode 10 features leaders Kate Tyrrell and Antonia Stephenson, discussing EV safety, recycling, and gender diversity challenges.
- The episode debunks EV battery myths, promotes female leadership, and highlights the need for better public awareness.
Women in the Driving Seat tackles battery longevity and the trials of charging in the dark
Auto Trader has just released Episode 10 of its popular podcast, Women in the Driving Seat. Hosted by the esteemed Erin Baker, the podcast dives into the lives and careers of women shaping the auto industry. This episode features two inspiring voices – Kate Tyrrell, CEO of ChargeSafe, and Antonia Stephenson, Director of Operations & Finance for EV Battery Solutions, part of Cox Automotive.
The episode takes a deep dive into the often misunderstood world of EV batteries. Tyrrell shares the frightening experience that inspired her to create ChargeSafe. She recalls the moment she found herself stranded, physically trembling in her car, fearing she might not make it to a charging point. That moment sparked a mission. She wanted to make EV charging safer, especially for women. “I am a woman. I am terrified of charging my car in the dark,” she admits. She hopes to change that reality, building a company that aims to set safety standards for the industry.
Stephenson, on the other hand, brings a more technical perspective. She highlights the impressive strides in battery technology, stressing that nearly 95% of battery materials can be recycled. But she also warns against oversimplifying the topic. “Consumers have an appetite to pretend to be experts,” she says, pointing out the need for better public understanding. She also calls for more women to join the field, noting the disappointing gender imbalance in recent recruitment efforts.
Between technical insights and personal stories, the episode also busts common myths about EV batteries
It tackles misconceptions around battery life, performance, and recycling – all while encouraging women to consider careers in this fast-growing sector.
Women in the Driving Seat launched on in February 2025 to spotlight women’s experiences across the automotive industry. Each episode features two guests from various roles, including CEOs, retail assistants, and sustainability experts, discussing topics such as recruitment, customer service, and lessons the automotive sector can learn from industries like fashion retail. The podcast aims to provide a platform for honest conversations about the challenges and successes women face in the automotive world, blending personal and professional narratives to inspire and inform listeners.
With more episodes planned, Women in the Driving Seat continues to shine a light on the challenges and triumphs of women in the auto industry.
