Each year, car manufacturers offer their potential customers increasingly newer technological solutions. Is the automotive industry today only of interest to men? Do only men achieve professional success in it? Well, no! In the 21st century, women have an impact on all areas of life.
Car manufacturers offer their potential customers newer technological solutions every year. Is the automotive industry today only of interest to men? Do only men achieve professional success in it? Well, no! In the 21st century, women have an impact on all areas of life. We've known for a long time that the world would simply be boring without them! Enzo Ferrari and Henry Ford are leading figures in the development of the automotive industry. Did women also influence the course of this history? Of course they did! The first successful car journey was undertaken by a woman. In August 1888, Bertha Benz, wife of Carl Benz, became the first to travel 66 miles from Mannheim to Pforzheim. Hatpin and garter belt helped her make repairs. Gentlemen! I must surprise you again. At the age of 26, Clarenore Stinnes became the first person to circumnavigate the world by car. Mary Teresa Barra has been leading the American giant General Motors since January 15, 2014. She is the first woman to hold the position of CEO in the 'Big Three'. As someone who, besides cars, has always been fascinated by Women, while sitting at my desk at MHC Mobility, hidden behind two monitors, I closely, but discreetly, observe my female colleagues in the industry. From the first day of work, apart from the scent of perfume, loud conversations, and the sound of heels, I noticed the tremendous dedication of women to their duties. I was amazed by their knowledge of automotive industry and awareness of new technological solutions. Added to this is their self-assurance and conviction. I noticed that for many of them, automotive is not just a job but also a hobby, and even a passion. Observing all this, I came to the conclusion that it's high time to dedicate a few words to our women in a gesture of recognition and appreciation for their contribution to the development of our brand. For my interview, I invited true experts in their field. Women who not only influence the development of the automotive industry but also devote their heart to this industry.
- Beata Ulijasz - Head of Human Resources CEE HR at MHC Mobility.
Traveling through Milan streets in an old Fiat 500 from 1957, alongside Matteo Bocelli? Or traveling through Manhattan streets in the latest Mercedes E-Class?
Both the first and the second proposal are very interesting. However, I am a fan of big metropolises. I'm interested in how such a city functions. The big world and luxury! Mercedes would be perfect for such a journey. I'm opting for Manhattan and New York!
Volvo designer Camila Palmertz, when creating new cars, follows the statement: 'If you meet the expectations of women, you will exceed the expectations of men.', so what does a woman expect from a car?
My car should be a reliable partner for me. Beauty is certainly expected. However, safety and vehicle efficiency are crucial. I believe that every car should have a designated place for securely placing a woman's handbag. It simply doesn't fit in the glove compartment, and there's no easy access to it. I know that various conveniences are already being created, but it's not available as a basic standard. I believe that new cars are still being designed with the expectation of meeting the needs of men more than women. As a mother, I would also like to see conveniences such as spaces for a bottle next to the child's car seat, a screen built into the passenger seat.
Heidi Klum, in one of her interviews, recalled her first car: 'My first car was a DAF. One of the ugliest cars I know.' Do visual aspects matter to you as well? Which brand impresses you the most?
Unlike Heidi, my first car was a red Fiat 126p, and I have a huge sentiment for it. In Cuba, to this day, the so-called 'little car' is very popular and reliable. Ferrari has always made the biggest impression on me, its sound sends shivers down my spine, aggressive colors, and a line that amazes. It would also perfectly match a sequin dress. It's a gem in the crown of Italian automotive industry.
Coco Chanel believed that: 'Women think about all colors except the absence of color. Black has everything. White too. Their beauty is absolute.' Does color matter a lot when choosing a car?
I love colors! If we decide on something special, it's always worth emphasizing it with the right color. However, I believe that the brand of the car is more important - a black Ferrari doesn't excite! It has to be red! My favorite color is navy-emerald. This unconventional color makes a huge impression on me.
Henry Ford said: 'If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses!' Does engine power matter to a woman?
When I was a very young woman, I paid more attention to this aspect. I believe that the right amount of horsepower also ensures safety while driving.
On the radio during the journey to work: Kylie Minogue's 'In Your Eyes' or Madonna's 'La Isla Bonita'?
Madonna - a true classic. La Isla Bonita and Spanish rhythms are my thing. Definitely!
- Sandra Szkwarek - Head of Marketing & Product Development CEE at MHC Mobility.
Why the automotive industry? Were you interested in cars?
The decision to work in the automotive industry was driven by the belief that I could bring a fresh, feminine perspective and make changes to it. My personal interest in cars also influenced this decision, although initially, I didn't expect my career path to be related to automotive. Privately, cars have always fascinated me, but it was only through professional experience that I could combine my passion with my career. My story shows that interests can evolve and find their reflection in professional life, opening up new possibilities and challenges.
Traveling through the streets of Milan in an old Fiat 500 from 1957, alongside Adam Driver? Or traveling through the streets of Manhattan in the latest Audi e-tron GT quattro?
I definitely choose to travel through the streets of Manhattan in the latest Audi e-tron GT quattro. I've always been intrigued by such a huge metropolis. The grandeur of this city is impressive. New York is known for its numerous traffic jams and extended travel times. I believe that Audi as a premium car would be perfect for such a journey.
Coco Chanel once said, "Women think of all colors except the absence of color. Black has it all. White too. Their beauty is absolute." Does color matter when choosing a car?
Yes, the color of the car is very important to me. Personally, I prefer specific, vivid colors, such as black or red, which reflect style and character. I wouldn't choose a car in white or silver.
Kasia Klich sings in one of her songs: "I'll exchange you for a better model." While these words refer to "exchanging a man for a better model," are new technological solutions offered by car manufacturers important for women?
Yes, new technological solutions in cars are very important for women, just as they are for men. I pay particular attention to new types of drives. Electric cars are a very interesting option for me. Innovations not only affect the comfort and safety of driving but also address contemporary ecological challenges, which is an important aspect for conscious users.
On the radio during the commute to work: The Weekend's "Blinding Lights" or Bruno Mars' "Smokin Out The Window"?
Bruno Mars is one of my favorite artists; I would choose the song "Smokin Out The Window". The entire Silk Sonic collective album is one of my all-time favorites.
The presence of women in the automotive industry. What is the recipe for success?
Success in the automotive industry requires a combination of determination, knowledge, and the ability to adapt to a changing environment. It is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. Building a strong network of contacts also plays a key role.
- Izabela Świerczyńska - Lawyer leading the Law Firm in Piaseczno near Warsaw.
Traveling through the streets of Milan in an old Fiat 500 from 1957 alongside Adam Driver? Or traveling through the streets of Manhattan in the latest Audi e-tron GT quattro?
I choose to travel through the streets of Manhattan in the latest Audi e-tron GT quattro; I have always been intrigued by such a powerful metropolis. The scale of this city is impressive. New York means numerous traffic jams and extended travel times. I believe that Audi, as a premium car, would be perfect for such a journey.
Volvo designer Camila Palmertz, when creating new cars, follows the statement: "If you meet women's expectations, you will exceed men's requirements." So what does a woman expect from a car?
Volvo designer Camila Palmertz, when creating new cars, follows the statement: "If you meet women's expectations, you will exceed men's requirements." So what does a woman expect from a car?
From her car, she expects above all reliability and efficiency in all driving conditions. My work as a lawyer involves many trips. Professionally, I usually travel alone, so I want to feel safe. The car should also appeal to a woman; it should meet certain visual expectations.
Coco Chanel believed that: "Women think of all colors except the absence of color. Black has it all. White too. Their beauty is absolute." Does color matter when choosing a car?
Yes! In my opinion, a car is a reflection of our taste and style. Black is elegant. My next car will be red; the color of "lipstick red" would be perfect. I like vivid and strong colors.
Henry Ford said: "If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses!" Does engine power matter to a woman?
Engine power is important to me. During long and exhausting journeys, the amount of horsepower also affects our safety and driving comfort.
On the radio during the commute to work: Madonna's "La Isla Bonita?" or Ed Sheeran's "Bad Habits?"
Definitely Madonna! I love good classics. Such music relaxes me.
Is a car just an excellent means of transport?
A car helps each of us cope with the challenges of everyday life. I can't imagine carrying a large amount of documents or papers by train or bus every time. My car is my library. During the journey, I love listening to audiobooks. I don't always find time during the day to read a book quietly. Thanks to numerous trips, I return to my favorite literary works.
- Iwona Jasionek - Fleet Sales Department Manager at Krotoski Group.
Why the automotive industry? Were you interested in cars?
The automotive industry was a complete coincidence; my previous job was related to the events industry. A headhunter called me and offered a meeting. After several discussions, I took on the challenge and told myself, "I'm going for it," without having any idea what the world of car sales looked like, especially the fleet channel, which is quite different from retail sales. However, my familiarity with the showroom was to some extent due to my sister's involvement in the industry much earlier. The beginnings were tough; at that time, the industry was not as abundant in female representation.
Traveling through the streets of Milan in an old Fiat 500 from 1957 alongside Adam Driver? Or traveling through the streets of Manhattan in the latest Audi e-tron GT quattro?
The answer to this question is very difficult, and I wouldn't be myself if I didn't combine Italy and the Audi e-tron GT model. I love this country for its sun, cuisine, people, and approach to life. On the other hand, the Audi e-tron GT model is one that evokes many emotions, stands out on the road, and is an object of interest and desire. On top of all this is Audi's quattro technology, which many car manufacturers envy us.
Volvo designer Camila Palmertz, when creating new cars, follows the statement: "If you meet women's expectations, you will exceed men's requirements." So what does a woman expect from a car?
I can confidently say that women's knowledge of cars and their driving skills have changed dramatically over the years. Once upon a time, a woman was only responsible for choosing the color and was the target of slogans like "a woman behind the wheel" or the derogatory statement directed at men "you drive like a woman." Now, women either choose the car themselves or are equal partners in its selection. Certainly, we women, apart from aesthetic considerations, focus on the comfort and safety of the car.
How do you relate to Giorgio Armani's words: "Just like with clothes, there is nothing more tempting than choosing a car that suits a person's personality"?
Absolutely, this applies to both men and women. Of course, everything must be within our financial reach. In today's world, which offers us various car financing options, such as renting or leasing, fulfilling our dreams is within reach. We often hear among friends, "you fit with this car." There's something to it; consciously or subconsciously, we choose a car that suits us.
Coco Chanel believed that: "Women think of all colors except the absence of color. Black has it all. White too. Their beauty is absolute." Does color matter when choosing a car?
It's a very individual matter, both in terms of color preferences and the car we want to choose. There are situations where, looking at a particular model, we say that only "this" color suits it, and in this situation, our preferences don't matter.
Kasia Klich sings in one of her songs: "I'll exchange you for a better model." While these words refer to "exchanging a man for a better model," are new technological solutions offered by car manufacturers important for women?
We are definitely more sentimental than men. Selling a car involves a kind of sadness because we remember how many journeys we made in it. Choosing a new car brings great joy and satisfaction. We already have a certain base of experiences that we lacked in the previous model and what we would like in the new one.
On the radio during the commute to work: The Weekend's "Blinding Lights" or Nancy Sinatra's "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'" (1966)?
Most often, during the journey, I catch up on missed phone calls, so music takes a back seat. If I have space for it, it all depends on the mood; both songs suit my musical tastes.
In conclusion, I would like to thank each of the ladies for their time and willingness to talk to me. You have shown that working in the automotive industry can be combined with true passion and love for cars. P.S. Hmm, I wonder why none of you wanted to go on a trip with Matteo Bocceli or Adam Driver? That's really interesting, gentlemen.
Piotr Adamek
Debt Collection Specialist
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