General · 3 December 2025
SUVs now 62% new UK cars, up from 47%
A concerning trend dubbed 'carspreading' is reshaping UK roads as vehicles grow steadily longer, wider and heavier. In 2024, SUVs comprised 62% of new vehicle sales, representing a considerable increase from the 47% share they held in 2020. Average car width has increased 2.5cm since 2018 while bonnet heights have risen from approximately 77cm to 84cm between 2010-2024. Critics warn larger vehicles pose greater dangers to pedestrians and cyclists, with children facing 82% higher death risk when struck by SUVs. Cities are responding with policy changes including Cardiff's increased parking charges for vehicles over 2,400kg.
Reported by BBC · How we write briefs