For much of automotive history, car design and manufacturing have been steered by male perspectives, often overlooking women’s unique needs and preferences. Yet, as society evolved and women began to command their rightful place behind the wheel, their voices became essential in reshaping the automobile landscape.
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Electric Starters
One of the earliest car features influenced by women was the electric starter. Before its invention, cars were started using hand cranks, which could be physically demanding and occasionally dangerous. Recognizing that many women found this method challenging, Cadillac introduced the electric self-starter in 1912, making vehicles more accessible and appealing to a broader audience.
Rearview Mirrors
Although the primary purpose of rearview mirrors is for safety, women drivers played a significant role in their popularization. Dorothy Levitt, one of the first British women racing drivers, suggested in 1906 that women should “carry a little hand mirror in a convenient place when driving” to hold up occasionally and see what’s behind them. This advice paved the way for the integration of permanent rearview mirrors.
Automatic Transmission
The introduction of automatic transmission wasn’t specifically a response to women’s demands. However, many women preferred it over manual transmission, citing the convenience of not having to shift gears constantly. Recognizing the increasing demand, automakers expanded their offerings, and automatic transmissions became more common.
Smaller, Compact Designs
While there’s no one-size-fits-all car for any gender, many women expressed a preference for smaller, more manageable vehicles. Compact cars, like the Volkswagen Beetle and the Mini Cooper, became popular among women for their ease of parking, fuel efficiency, and overall manageability.
Increased Storage
Women highlighted the need for more storage spaces in vehicles, such as compartments for purses or shopping bags. In response, car manufacturers began incorporating more innovative storage solutions like glove compartments, concealed under-seat storage, and specifically designed purse holders.
Improved Visibility
Many women drivers expressed concerns over blind spots and overall visibility in certain car designs. As a result, car manufacturers have worked on redesigning pillars, enlarging windows, and incorporating technologies like blind-spot detection to enhance driver visibility and safety.
Adjustable Pedals and Seats
Recognizing that women, on average, are shorter than men, the introduction of adjustable pedals and seats became essential. These features allow drivers to adjust their seating position for comfort, ensuring that they can reach pedals easily and have a clear view of the road.
Safety Enhancements
While safety is a universal concern, women, especially mothers, have been vocal advocates for improved safety features. This advocacy has contributed to the widespread adoption of features like multiple airbags, child safety locks, and rearview cameras.
Hands-Free Liftgates
Acknowledging that women often multitask and may approach their vehicles with hands full of groceries or holding children, the hands-free liftgate was introduced. By simply waving a foot under the rear bumper or approaching with a key fob, the trunk opens, making it significantly more convenient.
Climate-Controlled Dual Zones
Recognizing that passengers might have different temperature preferences, dual-zone climate control allows both the driver and the front passenger to set their individual temperature settings. This feature was a response to feedback from many women who wanted more personalized comfort during journeys.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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