In a bid to curb the proliferation of SUVs and other large vehicles on its streets, Paris has decided to significantly increase parking fees for heavier cars. The new pricing scheme will see petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles that exceed 1600kg and 2000kg respectively, incurring substantially higher parking rates.
Under this new policy, parking in the city centre for drivers of such vehicles will cost €18 (£15.40) per hour, while parking in other areas within the city limits will be set at €12 (£10.30) per hour.
This decision, although framed as a crackdown on SUVs, will also impact a variety of saloon and coupé models like the Audi A6, BMW i4, and Genesis G70. The regulation notably affects plug-in hybrids, which despite their potential for zero tailpipe emissions over certain distances, will face the increased rates; examples include the BMW 330e, Citroën C5 X PHEV, and Mercedes-Benz A250e.
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo celebrated the vote as a decisive action by the citizens, citing a 54.6% approval from a 5.7% voter turnout. Hidalgo has framed the higher parking fees as a move towards “social justice”, targeting luxury vehicles owned by those who have not adapted their habits in light of climate change.
David Belliard, the deputy mayor, echoed this sentiment, indicating the policy targets wealthier individuals. However, Paris residents, who live in one of Europe’s most expensive cities for property, will not see a change in their parking costs. Exemptions are in place for commercial vehicles, taxis, and disabled permit holders.
Following Paris’s lead, London’s Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed interest in adopting a similar approach, advocating for the adoption of effective policies from other cities to address environmental challenges.
The initiative, although widely referred to as an SUV tax, affects a broader range of vehicles, underscoring Paris’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the reduction of heavy vehicle traffic within its boundaries.
