Woman at the Wheel **

Status symbols vary from country to country, but cars have always been a cornerstone. According to BBC news, post-communist Russia is one place that takes their cars very seriously, and more-so, cars have long been considered *cough *cough “a man’s business”.

Women driver’s and car owners are still seen somewhat as a novelty in Russia, but this is all about to take an abrupt change. The post-communist generations of female Russians have access to good quality jobs, which brings about purchasing power. These young professional women are in control of their finances and they are ready to use it … on motor vehicles.

However, it is not a walk in the park. Chauvinism seems to be unchecked in terms of women drivers. This excerpt from a BBC interview tells how one Russian driving instructor thinks women taking to the road:

“Women are by nature more shy. They might get scared,”

“They might close their eyes, like this.” Driving instructor covers his eyes with his hands.

Think of how it might be getting instructed by this person as a woman new to the world of motoring … spine-chilling!

A few things have happened to combat such narrow-mindedness. BMW has a female driving instructor who only teaches women, and a new magazine called “Woman at the Wheel” – a lifestyle magazine that focuses on cars and fashion – has hit the streets in Moscow. Whilst the magazine reportedly contains useful tips such as how to complete a perfect parallel park, it also contains tips on how to complete a perfect exit from your vehicle.

In any case, the magazine is an attempt to bridge the gap between women and driving, and I for one wish it the best of success. I am convinced that such efforts will help to empower women in Russia to “take control of the wheel” in the years to come.

PS. Another prominent motor vehicle magazine targeted to women has existed since the mid-90’s called Woman Motorist (USA publication)

**Completely off topic