Forget manspreading; carspreading is the new urban nuisance. | Carscoops

      As SUVs get larger while parking spaces remain unchanged, the continent is facing a tight situation unrelated to emissions testing.

      Recently, larger vehicles in Europe have begun to outgrow available parking.

      Several cities have implemented fees and restrictions on SUVs.

      Car owners argue they require the extra space, and SUV sales continue to rise.

      It might seem like cars have been exercising, or perhaps indulging in treats, because they have indeed grown in size. Detractors describe this phenomenon as "carspreading," likening it to urban sprawl but occurring within parking areas and across city centers.

      In the UK and Europe, vehicles have been steadily increasing in dimensions for years. A VW Polo, for instance, was once considered to be Polo-sized, but it is now larger than the original Golf.

      A BBC report indicates that the average new car in Europe measures 1,870 mm (71.7 inches) in width, reflecting a 50 mm (2 inches) increase since 2018, largely due to the growing popularity of SUVs.

      The weight of these vehicles has also risen, surpassing 200 kg (440 lbs) in just a few years. This increase does not even account for electric SUVs, which can weigh as much as heavyweight contenders.

      Cities are reacting

      Urban areas have begun to take notice. Paris took the lead by tripling parking fees for "heavy" vehicles, claiming that these new regulations have decreased the number of ultra-heavy cars parked on its streets by two-thirds.

      Cardiff in Wales is following suit, raising permit prices for vehicles over 2,400 kg (5,290 lbs). Other local governments are watching closely.

      It’s easy to understand why regulators are concerned. Many popular cars in the UK now exceed the 1,800 mm (70.9 inches) standard parking space, leading to drivers struggling to fit their vehicles rather than parking them. Some councils have resorted to spending large sums to widen parking bays that remain underutilized due to their narrow dimensions.

      SUV enthusiasts defend their choice

      However, buyers of larger vehicles argue that their purchase is not merely a status symbol. Families assert they need the extra room, and commuters appreciate the elevated seating position. Those transporting children, pets, sports equipment, or groceries claim that larger vehicles simply work better.

      The reality is that people shop more, carry more, and engage in outings more frequently than previous generations. Lifestyles have become busier, resulting in fuller vehicle trunks. Households are, on average, financially better off than they were a generation ago, and their expectations have evolved accordingly.

      Moreover, many SUVs share platforms with smaller cars, which allows them to be marketed at higher prices with only slight increases in production costs. This is advantageous for manufacturers, just as it is popular among customers seeking spacious storage.

      Is safety a contributing factor?

      Safety regulations have also contributed to the increase in vehicle size. Modern crash safety features, including airbag systems and sturdier cabins, add weight. While SUVs provide better protection for occupants, critics argue that they pose greater risks to pedestrians and other road users.

      A Belgian study found that a 100 mm (3.9 inches) increase in hood height can elevate the fatality risk for vulnerable road users by 27 percent, according to the BBC's Carspreading investigation.

      Environmental advocates highlight that the increased weight results in higher energy consumption, whether a vehicle runs on petrol or electricity. While electric vehicles can reduce some emissions, they typically add even more weight, leading to increased release of harmful tire particles—a concern that has gained attention recently.

      Smaller cars are becoming more enjoyable, yet SUVs are here to stay

      Governments are now testing various fees, taxes, and regulations to encourage consumers to opt for smaller vehicles. Smaller electric models like the Renault 5 and Hyundai Inster are demonstrating that compact transport can be enjoyable without feeling burdensome.

      Nonetheless, SUVs are likely to remain popular for many years as people are reluctant to part with them, and these vehicles will probably continue to grow, despite the fact that roads, garages, and parking spots will not change in size.