Large cars as accessible vehicles

As the SUV Alliance we want to see a reduction in the number of large cars and SUVs on the UK’s roads. However, we do understand that larger cars can be preferable to disabled people and those with impaired mobility. The larger interior of an SUV may be more comfortable, easier to get into and out of, or perhaps just has more room for mobility aids and other equipment.

In our manifesto we highlight that exemptions should always be made for accessible vehicles when it comes to policies that would otherwise penalise drivers of larger cars and SUVs. Existing schemes like Blue Badge could be used to provide exemptions, as could vehicles purchased through Motability schemes.

At the same time, we note that disabled people and people with mobility issues are amongst those most at risk from the prevalence of larger cars and SUVs on our roads. High-bonneted SUVs and pickups create blindspots that make shorter road users like wheelchair users invisible to the driver. Navigating pavements and crossing roads can already be fraught, and more large cars only increases that risk: pavement parking reduces the space available to walk and wheel, whilst taller cars parked on the kerbside make crossing the road safely more difficult due to reduced visibility.

Ultimately, a reduction in the number of cars on the road - and especially the number of large cars and SUVs - makes more space for those who genuinely do need a car to travel around. We think reversing the general trend towards ever-bigger, ever-heavier cars and SUVs is a central part of creating a future of accessible transport for all.