Conforming to the increasingly louder beat of the eco-conscious drum and answering to political concerns regarding increasingly congested roads, the French Government is seriously contemplating a proposed ban (or heavy tax) on large 4WD vehicles. The proposal, if approved, would ultimately mean that smoky diesel and polluting 4WD’s would be largely banned from entering the Parisian streets.

Despite this move, Aussie governments do not seem to be taking heed; congestion charges leveled at deterring motorists from driving eco-unfriendly vehicles into CBD areas, are still non-existent in our largest cities.

The details of the French ban are still to be discussed and fine-tuned, and the taxes and fees on heavy vehicles are yet to be determined. The hours during which the ban would apply and vehicles to be focused upon are also elements that need to be deciphered by the French officials. Given the fact that not all large 4WD vehicles are heavy polluters, it will be interesting to see what the outcome of such discussions will be. Nonetheless, the majority of French politicians on the forefront of the debate are publicly adamant to reduce traffic and improve pollution levels.

Unlike other Western nations, there is not a large 4WD lobby in France, hence there should not be a particularly stark uproar of opposition if the ban is to go ahead. However, political problems could occur in the event that older diesel models are heavily taxed, as many of these owners (and constituents) may potentially be unable to afford more expensive, ‘cleaner’ models.

Not surprisingly, the news of the proposed ban has excited automakers manufacturing electric models. Moreover, small fuel efficient carmakers such as Renault and Peugeot have also warmly welcomed the potential prohibition, with the latter company preparing a new diesel-hybrid range.