The findings show that 28% believe all cars should be subject to the same rules regardless of size or type. Credit: hxdbzxy / Shutterstock.com.

A recent survey by Startline indicates that most UK motorists support the introduction of increased parking fees for large SUVs in cities, in line with measures adopted in Paris, France.

According to the November Startline Used Car Tracker, 61% of those surveyed believe cities across the UK should follow the French capital’s example by tripling parking charges for heavier, larger vehicles.

Access deeper industry intelligence

Experience unmatched clarity with a single platform that combines unique data, AI, and human expertise.


Find out more

Concerns cited by respondents include 41% saying SUVs lead to unnecessary congestion, and 31% noting they contribute to pollution.

There are also safety considerations, as 17% feel SUVs represent a heightened risk to pedestrians.

The findings show that 28% believe all cars should be subject to the same rules regardless of size or type.

Another 13% think motorists should be able to access cities with any vehicle, and 10% say SUVs are being unfairly singled out. 

Paris implemented higher parking fees for large SUVs last year following a local vote, citing environmental concerns.  

In the UK, Cardiff Council has recently agreed to apply additional charges to parking permits for owners of large SUVs.

The Startline Used Car Tracker survey involved 302 consumers and 60 dealers. It is conducted monthly by APD Global Research for Startline Motor Finance. 

Startline Motor Finance CEO Paul Burgess said: “Our findings show there is a pretty strong majority for people who want to discourage driving big SUVs in their cities because of their impact on the environment, traffic and pedestrian safety – and would like to see action taken that actively discourages their owners from bringing them into these areas.”

Last month, a Startline report noted that growing number of car dealers in the UK are making use of AI in their businesses.