A recent study has shown that electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK are around 150kg heavier than traditional petrol and diesel cars, with the increase attributed to the popularity of SUVs and EVs. The rise in vehicle weight raises concerns about parking charges and the structural integrity of car parks.
A study has revealed that electric vehicles (EVs) are approximately 150kg heavier than petrol and diesel cars in the UK. This weight increase is primarily driven by the rising popularity of SUVs and EVs, which outweigh traditional car models. Data from 2016 indicated that the average weight of new cars was 1,553kg; by 2023, this had increased to 1,947kg.
Mark Tisshaw, editor of Autocar, highlighted that the bulkier and lengthier nature of modern cars could lead to higher parking charges. He cited Paris as an example, where parking fees for heavier vehicles have tripled. UK policymakers are considering similar measures.
Structural engineer Chris Whapples raised concerns about the capacity of older car parks to support increasingly heavier vehicles. He advised car park operators to evaluate the structural integrity of their facilities to ensure safety.
