Manchester Friends of the Earth claim that four-wheel drives burn more fuel than ordinary cars, contributing more towards climate change and ground-level pollution, whilst also posing a greater danger to pedestrians, cyclists and other road users. For example, if a pedestrian is hit by a 4x4 they are twice as likely to be killed, and in a side-impact collision with a 4x4, a car driver is around four times more likely to be killed than if they were hit by a conventional car.
The majority of the people that the protestors spoke to supported the alliance's call for higher road taxes for these dirty and dangerous vehicles. Indeed in a recent poll in the Manchester Evening News, 85% voted that four-wheel drive vehicles were unsuitable for an urban environment.
Spokesperson Dave Coleman said: "Too many people are driving what are basically pieces of modified agricultural machinery through our crowded streets because they think they are a fashion accessory. Most 4x4 drivers don't want to be selfish, but don't realise the impact these vehicles have or how widely they are resented and ridiculed."
Manchester Friends of the Earth transport campaign (0161 834 8221, office@manchesterfoe.org.uk)