Celebrating Diversity in the Automotive Industry
Congratulations to our Champion Diversity in Automotive Award: Volkswagen Group UK
Volkswagen’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) journey began in 2015 with a Gender Intelligence Strategy, evolving into a comprehensive approach that aligns with business goals. The company prioritises inclusivity across gender, race, disability, and LGBTQ+, ensuring DE&I is embedded in its strategic vision.
Key initiatives include six Employee Network Groups (ENGs) with over 640 members, offering support, education, and measurable impact. Achievements include free period products, neurodiversity support in medical plans, an LGBTQ+ Policy and sponsorship of MK Pride. The company’s outreach program has connected with over 40,000 young people, and in 2023, 21 policies were updated or introduced to enhance inclusivity.
Volkswagen actively tracks progress, achieving a rise in DE&I disclosures, gender and ethnicity pay gap reporting, and a 13.8 percentage point increase in female representation since 2012. Reverse mentoring and leadership training have enhanced inclusivity, while National Inclusion Week and the ‘Speak Up’ survey show strong employee engagement.
Committed to accessibility, Volkswagen joined the Disability Confident Scheme and launched training for managers. Recruitment is more inclusive, with anonymised CVs and targeted outreach. As the first automotive company to earn Inclusive Employers’ Gold standard, Volkswagen continues to set benchmarks in DE&I, sharing best practices industry-wide.
Congratulations to our shortlisted finalists:
 | Mission Motorsport Mission Motorsport’s Mission Automotive initiative has transformed diversity in the automotive sector by promoting the Armed Forces community, including veterans and service leavers. Launched in 2019, it has led to the adoption of Armed Forces engagement strategies by seven OEMs and over 100 companies. The initiative fosters inclusive networks, helping employers harness the unique skills of service members. Mission Motorsport’s advocacy also extends to other sectors, driving systemic change and influencing policies, creating life-changing opportunities for veterans and their families. |
 | Solus Solus, with investment from Aviva, is committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming work environment. This includes accessible facilities and a focus on gender diversity, with a 50:50 gender split in leadership roles. Their award-winning apprenticeship programme offers comprehensive support, including mentorship and off-site training, while also promoting flexibility for returning parents. Partnering with Unifrog and launching a work experience programme, Solus provides opportunities for young people from all backgrounds to enter technical roles. |
