Images of rugged-looking men or sturdy construction workers dressed in blue jeans and work boots come to mind instantly when you think of pickup truck owners.
While this image may reflect a segment of the expanding truck market, however, it doesn’t portray all truck owners accurately.
The old notion of pickup trucks being exclusively for men is outdated, as there is an increasing trend of women owning them.
This could be linked to the location where they reside. Like for example, women living in isolated rural areas, such as the Bedouin community in Al Wusta Governorate, are freely driving pickup trucks. However, it is rare to see women driving pickup trucks in urban areas like Muscat and other regions.
As part of her responsibility to transform the perspective of women from diverse regions, Raya al Kharousi, who owns a pickup truck, enjoys motivating women to consider driving pickup trucks.
She believes these vehicles are practical and convenient for activities such as picnics and enables women to carry bicycles and camping gear with ease.
Raya strongly opposes the notion that being a female should refrain from entertainment opportunities and outdoor recreation.
She advocates to break down gender-based stereotypes that restrict women from experiencing these joys.
“Why shouldn’t I indulge in a vehicle that has all the bells and whistles? A car that comes equipped with the latest technologies that could help a woman navigate comfortably, while providing safety, luxury, and a sense of grandeur, as well as being the ideal choice for picnics,” Raya exclaimed.
She believes that owning a pickup truck promotes self-sufficiency and enables drivers to assist others, which she values greatly about owning a truck.
According to Raya, one of the main reasons women adore their pickup trucks is that it makes them feel secure.
The larger and taller size of the truck gives them a sense of protection that neither cars nor SUVs can match.
Raya said that she opted for a truck because of safety reasons. It provides her with better visibility while driving and she that in the case of an accident, she will be better protected.
Also, when it comes to dependability, pickup trucks outshine other types of vehicles. They possess off-road and towing capabilities that allow drivers to navigate through various terrains such as concrete, gravel, sand, or mud, she explains.
Maya is of the view that pickup truck owners need not worry about getting stranded in isolated locations because their vehicles can handle both off road and rough terrain.
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