Carspring has partnered with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) to launch a unique scholarship to encourage women to consider a career in the automotive sector.

The online used car retailer already has women in post as its head of marketing, head of product and head of human resources.

But after figures from Catalyst.org revealed that only 16% of people working in the UK industry were women, Carspring co-founder Maximillian Vollenbroich decided to go further to encourage change.

Now it has launched an automotive scholarship exclusively to female students.

Vollenbroich said: “The gender imbalance in the motor industry is, frankly, ridiculous. Everyone, both men and women drive cars, so both men and women should be involved in the sector. What’s more, inequality is a real roadblock to innovation and we want to do our bit to make amends.”

“At Carspring, we’re committed to bringing about a better balance.

“We know that businesses representing their customer base better have the best chance of success.”

Carspring’s new IMI-backed scholarship is open to apprentices at Level 2 to 4 (advanced technician etc.) and anyone with a confirmed place at a UK university.

It offers a £1000 cash bursary and a two-week work experience period in either London or Berlin to two successful applicants per year.

All applicants must apply by submitting a briefing document on ‘The Future of Automotive Retail.’

IMI chief executive, Steve Nash, said: “This is a fantastic initiative that chimes perfectly with our campaign to promote careers in the motor industry to women.

“Carspring are ahead of the curve on this issue and I hope other companies will follow their lead and offer practical assistance to help young women join our sector.”

For more details, visit www.carspring.co.uk/scholarship