ユーロ

ブログ
Increased Heights of Car Hoods: Risks for Road Safety and Consequences for Logistics

Increased Heights of Car Hoods: Risks for Road Safety and Consequences for Logistics

ジェームズ・ミラー
によって 
ジェームズ・ミラー
4 minutes read
ニュース
6月 30, 2025

はじめに

The ongoing trend in new car designs has seen an increase in hood heights across Europe, raising significant concerns regarding road safety. This shift is particularly alarming for pedestrians and cyclists, including vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. The implications of these changes not only pertain to safety but also extend to the realm of logistics and urban transport.

Trends in Car Design

According to a recent study published by T&E in collaboration with the Clean Cities campaign, the average front height of cars has risen from 76.9 cm in 2010 to 83.8 cm projected by 2024. This noticeable increase correlates with the growing popularity of SUVs, which generally feature taller structures. The rising trend does not seem to have been curtailed by existing European and national regulations, which currently lack specific limits for car heights.

The Safety Implications

The consequences of these elevated hoods are concerning. Tests showcased in the T&E report reveal that drivers of larger vehicles, notably SUVs, have restricted visibility, particularly when it comes to spotting young children standing directly in front of their vehicles. For example, models like certain SUVs can obscure the view of a child up to nine years old. Furthermore, at city speeds (typically up to 50 km/h), the dynamics of a collision can lead to scenarios where pedestrians are thrown beneath the vehicle rather than to the side, significantly increasing the risks of fatalities.

Statistics That Raise Alarms

Research mentioned in the report highlights that for every additional 10 cm of hood height, the likelihood of pedestrian fatalities increases by 27%. In addition, elevated front structures of SUVs and trucks are responsible for a 20%-50% higher chance of severe injury for occupants of smaller vehicles during accidents.

Public Safety Concerns in Spain

The situation in Spain reflects a broader trend seen across Europe. In Spain, over 55% of new car registrations consist of SUVs, a trend that has escalated since 2012. This shift is transforming urban settings into less safe environments for active mobility—those who rely on walking, cycling, or other non-motorized forms of transport.

The Voice of Concern

Local organizations involved in the Clean Cities campaign have voiced their alarms, stating, “Our streets are becoming increasingly crowded with vehicles that not only occupy more space but pose clear dangers to road safety.” This is described not just as an issue of vehicle design; it is also a matter of public safety.

Regulatory Requests and Future Recommendations

As part of their advocacy efforts, T&E and Clean Cities have called upon the EU to impose restrictions on hood heights by 2035, proposing a maximum of 85 cm to ensure pedestrian visibility and safety. They stress that this extended timeframe allows for gradual adjustments to existing vehicle production plans, minimizing disruptions.

Policy Adjustments

To support these changes, national and municipal governments should consider modifying taxes and parking fees to reflect vehicle size and weight, much like measures already adopted by cities such as Paris and Lyon. These steps not only aim to regulate the design of vehicles but also seek to reclaim urban spaces for safer and more pedestrian-friendly environments.

Broader Implications for Logistics and Transportation

The rising sizes of vehicles also impact logistics directly. Larger vehicles occupy more space in urban settings and could result in longer delivery times for logistics companies that rely on navigating city streets. As freight movement becomes more complex amidst these changing dynamics, solutions that prioritize smaller, more maneuverable vehicles may become increasingly viable.

Addressing Urban Challenges

To enhance logistics operations in urban areas, there is a pressing need for cities to reimagine their layouts considering the growth of larger vehicles. Balancing the various forms of transport will require innovative strategies that allow for both adequate movement of goods and safe passage for pedestrians.

結論

The increasing heights of car hoods present more than just a challenge for safety; they also introduce complications for logistics in urban environments. While reviews and statistics shed light on the issue, personal experience can often provide invaluable insight into real-world implications. GetTransport.com offers a range of cargo transportation options at competitive prices globally, enabling users to make informed decisions about their logistics needs. The platform emphasizes transparency and flexibility, ensuring efficient relocation and delivery processes that resonate with today’s challenges and opportunities in transportation. Start planning your next delivery and secure your cargo with GetTransport.com.