The Climate Question Are SUVs becoming a climate problem?
Jan 11, 2026
In this discussion, Theo Leggett, the BBC’s International Business Correspondent, and Anjani Trivedi, Global Business Correspondent at The Economist, delve into the booming popularity of SUVs. They explore the allure of larger vehicles for consumers, from safety to status symbols, and reveal how manufacturers profit from this trend. The conversation highlights environmental concerns, including how heavier cars negate efficiency gains and the rising presence of electric SUVs. They also discuss potential policy measures to curb this trend and the future of smaller, more practical cars.
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Dubai Shows The SUV Spectrum
- In Dubai, Anjani Trivedi sees everything from small efficient cars to Lamborghinis and Chinese SUVs on long wide roads.
- Local favourites like the Nissan Patrol and Toyota Land Cruiser dominate because people drive long distances on wide highways.
Cars Have Grown Significantly Larger
- Cars and models have steadily grown larger over decades, shifting what counts as a typical family car.
- SUVs now dominate markets, rising from 13% in 2011 to about 60% in Europe, reshaping roads and space.
Perceived Safety Drives SUV Demand
- Drivers choose SUVs partly because they feel safer, higher and surrounded by more space.
- That perceived safety for occupants can increase danger for other road users and push cars to become heavier with more equipment.