British Males Battle to Remain Cool on the Road

Discerning men know that when the lady of the house declares a living room or bedroom to be “cuddly” or “nice and warm”, an evening of stifling heat awaits. A study recently commissioned by Kwik-Fit shows that this divergence in optimal temperature also extends to our vehicles – with similar results to those experienced by British men at home.

The study, conducted for Kwik-Fit by ICM, draws on the experiences of 2,000 UK adults and shows that men prefer their in-car temperature cold, whereas women favour the opposite. This alternative climate debate causes 48 per cent of all couples to argue, and as you’ve probably already guessed, when it comes to this ‘heated’ battle of the sexes it’s the women who end up the winners.

According to the survey, almost twice as many men as women (19 per cent versus 11 per cent) prefer their in-car climate cold. Female motorists favour the other end of the temperature range – with 25 per cent more women opting for a warm car climate.  As previously mentioned, 48 per cent admit to in-car incompatibility with their partner and say that selecting air conditioning temperature causes arguments.  In seven out of ten cases the reason is that men want the temperature lower than women. Yet for all our rugged bluster, men rarely gain mastery of the high ground in the battle for temperature control, as Kwik-Fit statistics indicate: When driving solo, only 11 per cent of men choose a temperature of more than 21 degrees Celsius, but when women are present this figure more than trebles to 37 per cent. Incidentally, Scottish motorists prefer somewhat ‘manlier’ in-car temperatures – the UK’s most northerly inhabitants are three times more likely than the UK average to opt for in-car temperatures below 17 degrees Celsius.

“There is a clear divide between what men and women perceive to be comfortable driving temperatures,” commented Kwik-Fit chief executive, Ian Fraser. “And it’s perhaps of no surprise that this can, at times, cause friction between partners.

“However, whatever temperature they decide on, they want to get to that setting as quickly as possible. The more efficient the air-conditioning is, the quicker it will reach the right temperature and allow people to travel in comfort. Anyone who thinks their air conditioning could do with a boost can book their car in to Kwik-Fit for an air conditioning recharge for just £49. What’s more, if your air con isn’t ten per cent colder as a result, you pay nothing.”

Taking the side of caution, Tyres & Accessories recommends asking the wife’s permission before getting your car’s air conditioning seen to. Don’t say we didn’t warn you…..