More Women Obtaining Heavy Trailer Driving Licenses in Sweden
The number of women holding a BE driving license (for towing heavy trailers) in Sweden has surged by 84% in two decades, while the proportion of men has decreased, according to Swedish Transport Agency statistics.
A notable shift is occurring on Swedish roads, with an increasing number of women obtaining licenses for towing heavy trailers (BE category), an area previously dominated by men. Statistics from the Swedish Transport Agency reveal that the number of female BE license holders has risen by 84% over the past two decades.
During the same period, the proportion of men holding BE licenses has actually declined. While men still constitute the majority of individuals with the authority to tow heavy trailers, women are responsible for nearly the entire increase in the number of BE licenses since 2004. Overall, the total number of BE licenses has grown by just over 10%.
Hedin US Motor, the official European distributor of the Ford F-150 – a vehicle known for its high towing capacity – acknowledges the trend and its relevance. Maria Ågerup, Marketing and Communications Manager for Ford F-150 at Hedin US Motor, expressed optimism about the shift, calling it inspiring.
Although the percentage increase in female BE license holders is significant, it originates from a lower base. The share of men with BE authorization has decreased from 15.5% to 13.6% since 2004, while the share of women has grown from 1.4% to 2.2%. In absolute numbers, this translates to 70,000 women holding BE licenses compared to 483,000 men. Ågerup noted that while a balanced gender distribution is still some way off, the trend is positive.