May 2025 – São Paulo, Brazil
Brazilian automotive journalism has just marked a milestone moment: Milene Rios, a seasoned journalist with more than 20 years of experience in the industry, has officially joined the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) jury. Her appointment strengthens Brazil’s presence on this prestigious international panel, which now comprises 86 female motoring journalists from 55 countries — each bringing unique perspectives to the global evaluation of the year’s most significant automotive innovations.
A journalist of notable repute, Rios has built a career at the forefront of Brazil’s motoring media. From influential stints at Jovem Pan, O Estado de S.Paulo, and G1, to her current role on Autoesporte, the country’s leading automotive program on TV Globo, she has become a trusted source of insight for millions of Brazilians. Each Sunday morning, nearly 7 million viewers across television and streaming platforms tune in to Autoesporte for the latest news, reviews, and expert commentary — and Milene is a central part of that success.
Known for her articulate yet approachable reporting style, Milene Rios has mastered the art of making the technical accessible. Whether she’s unpacking the latest market trends, analyzing performance metrics, or sharing traffic safety advice, she consistently delivers content that resonates with both seasoned enthusiasts and everyday consumers.
But Rios’s influence stretches well beyond the newsroom. Drawing inspiration from her own experience as a mother to Davi and Maria Eduarda, she launched the pioneering project #mamãeacelerada — a platform dedicated to empowering individuals, especially women, to make informed automotive decisions. Through engaging digital content, the initiative offers practical advice on everything from vehicle maintenance to insurance, fuel efficiency, and lifestyle needs. It’s a movement that has not only deepened Milene’s connection with her audience but also challenged the traditional, male-centric narratives of the automotive space.
Her social media presence is an extension of this mission — a space where technical jargon gives way to everyday relevance, and where trust is the fuel that drives meaningful engagement. For many, she’s more than a journalist; she’s a relatable expert and advocate for smarter, safer, and more confident car ownership.
With her new role at WWCOTY, Rios joins fellow Brazilian journalist Isadora Carvalho in representing the country on a platform dedicated to celebrating automotive excellence from a distinctly female point of view. The award, which considers factors such as safety, technology, value, and driving appeal, aims to highlight vehicles that best meet the needs and desires of a diverse global audience.
Milene Rios’s appointment is not only a recognition of her professional calibre but also a reflection of the growing influence of Brazilian voices in the international automotive landscape. As the only award of its kind judged exclusively by women, WWCOTY plays a critical role in reshaping the way the industry measures innovation, relevance, and impact — and Milene’s voice is certain to enrich that conversation.
Her journey — grounded in journalistic excellence, community engagement, and a passionate drive to educate — exemplifies the spirit of WWCOTY. In an industry constantly evolving with new technologies and shifting consumer expectations, Milene Rios stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity, relatability, and clarity in automotive storytelling.
As she accelerates into this exciting new chapter, Brazil — and the world — will be watching.
