"Research shows that children are 77% more likely to die if struck by an SUV compared with other cars, due to their size and structure particularly their raised bonnets. This finding was highlighted in an announcement from the London mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan, that such risks are being scrutinised as part of a wider review into SUVs' environmental impact."
"Between 2021 and 2025, about 4.6m cars that are bigger than a typical parking space were sold in the UK. In Cardiff, 66% of respondents to a council survey said that SUV owners should pay more for parking permits. In Paris, a majority supported the tripling of parking fees in a 2024 referendum."
"For manufacturers, these vehicles are big earners due to higher profit margins. For those inside them, they offer more space and a higher vantage point. But for those on the outside, SUVs have obvious downsides. The threat that they pose to pedestrians is one."
SUVs have become ubiquitous in major cities, accounting for 46% of global new car sales in 2022. While manufacturers profit from higher margins and owners enjoy increased space and elevated seating positions, these vehicles create substantial external costs. Research demonstrates children are 77% more likely to die when struck by SUVs compared to standard cars due to their size and raised bonnets. Beyond safety concerns, SUVs consume significantly more parking space than conventional vehicles, with 4.6 million oversized cars sold in the UK between 2021 and 2025. Public surveys in Cardiff and Paris show strong support for increased parking fees for SUV owners. Cities like Helsinki and Oslo have successfully reduced road deaths through bold policy measures, providing models for London's anticipated regulatory response.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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