Why Cities Are Pushing Back Against the Rise of Bigger Cars

Cars across the UK and Europe are steadily getting longer, wider and heavier, a trend critics call “carspreading.” Consumers love big vehicles for their practicality, visibility and sense of safety, and SUV sales have soared from 13 percent of the European market in 2011 to nearly 60 percent today. However, many cities are now trying to curb their use, arguing that large cars create safety, environmental and infrastructure problems.

Paris is leading this shift. In 2024, residents voted to triple parking fees for visiting “heavy” vehicles, raising central rates to 18 euros per hour. Mayor Anne Hidalgo argued that larger cars pollute more, and officials later reported a two-thirds drop in very heavy vehicles parking on city streets. Inspired by Paris, Cardiff has begun charging higher parking permit fees for cars over 2,400 kilograms, citing increased emissions, greater road wear and higher risks for other road users.

Many drivers insist they rely on big cars. Families and business owners say SUVs and other large models make daily life easier, whether for transporting children, elderly passengers or bulky equipment. Their popularity is also encouraged by manufacturers, who earn higher profit margins on large vehicles. Many SUVs share platforms with smaller cars but sell at higher prices.

Safety and environmental concerns are central to the backlash. Modern cars have grown to accommodate stronger crash structures and more features. This makes them safer for occupants but often more dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists. A Belgian study found that a 10 centimeter increase in bonnet height raises the fatality risk for vulnerable road users by 27 percent. Environmental agencies warn that heavier vehicles, especially SUVs, have offset much of the progress made in reducing emissions even with improvements in efficiency and electrification.

France has introduced weight based taxes on heavier models, with steep penalties above 1,600 kilograms. Some campaigners want similar measures in the UK, while others argue for incentives that make smaller cars more appealing. A wave of affordable small electric cars is emerging, but for now SUVs remain dominant.

Whether city policies, taxes or shifting consumer trends will reverse “carspreading” is still unclear, but the debate over vehicle size is gaining momentum.