Many drivers have been caught flouting new parking rules by continuing to buy large SUVs despite new regulations on heavier vehicles.
Motorists across Wales have ignored Cardiff Council’s new enforcement plans, which will see extra parking charges introduced for cars weighing more than 2,400kg.
The Labour council approved the controversial move in October as part of a 10-year parking strategy, making it the first city in the UK to target heavier vehicles with higher fees.
However, fresh data suggests that the new parking policy has so far failed to curb enthusiasm for purchasing larger cars.
Research shows SUVs still make up more than 35 per cent of the 20 most searched-for vehicles in Wales. Popular models include the Range Rover Sport, Nissan Qashqai and BMW X5.
The figures showed that some SUVs have actually become more popular since the council approved the new charges.
The Nissan Qashqai climbed from eighth place to sixth among the most enquired-about cars in Wales after the plans were agreed. Meanwhile, the Audi Q3 entered the top 20 for the first time, landing in tenth place.
Before the policy was approved between September and October this year, eight SUVs featured among the top searched vehicles, including the Volkswagen Tiguan and Range Rover Evoque.
Reports revealed driver’s appetite for larger vehicles remained high despite the upcoming parking charges
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SUV ALLIANCE/GETTYAfter the announcement, seven SUVs remained in the top 20 during October and November, suggesting buyers have largely brushed off concerns about higher parking costs.
The Volkswagen Golf remained one of the most popular cars overall, but even that model saw a drop in interest, with its share of enquiries falling from 5.4 per cent to 4.4 per cent.
Autotrader expert Erin Baker said the figures showed drivers have been prioritising practicality over political and environmental concerns.
She said: “Despite the parking surcharges, SUVs remain hugely popular in Wales. Cardiff’s decision to introduce parking fees for vehicles over 2,400kg will affect many SUV drivers, but buyers are still choosing comfort, space and capability.”
The Range Rover Evoque was among the most searched for SUV brands in September and October | JAGUAR LAND ROVER
She added that this trend is especially clear outside major cities, where rural driving conditions make larger vehicles more appealing.
“Factors like safety, performance and practicality matter more to many drivers than fuel efficiency or urban policy changes,” Ms Baker said.
Cardiff Council has defended the enforcement plans, saying heavier vehicles cause more damage and pose greater risks.
A council spokesperson said: “These vehicles typically produce higher emissions, cause greater wear on roads, and present a significantly higher risk in road traffic collisions.“
The Volkswagen Tiguan remained one of the most popular SUVs for drivers in Wales
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VOLKSWAGENThe authority also argued the cost increase would be minimal compared to the price of large vehicles, noting that residential parking permits currently cost £35 a year.
However, the move has divided opinion among locals, with one driver warning the policy unfairly targets working people. “I need this vehicle for my job. It’s not a luxury, it’s a necessity,” he told the BBC.
Meanwhile, an SUV owner questioned the logic behind the scheme. “There are plenty of big cars that are hybrid or electric and very economical. Weight alone doesn’t tell the full story,” he said.
But some drivers have supported the measure, with one motorist who previously paid £120 a month for parking at his flat, explaining how fewer large vehicles in the city centre could reduce congestion and pollution.
