Motoring experts have warned drivers to be careful when parking in public bays as they risk being fined up to £80. Drivers could be land a fine even if their cars do not fit in the lines. LeaseLoco.com reports many cars are already wider than the 180cm minimum width of standard on-street parking bays - and vehicle sizes continue to grow by approximately 1cm every two years. 

The site’s CEO, John Wilmot, says that this growing size disparity between vehicles and parking spaces could make parking “even more challenging in the future”. “Over the years, cars have gradually increased in size, and with the release of the 25-plate this March, experts warn that some newer models may struggle to fit into standard parking bays – potentially leading to fines,” specialists say. 

A BMW X5 and an Audi Q7, for instance, each measure 221cm wide, including mirrors. 

Meanwhile, a Vauxhall Insignia is 208cm and a Toyota Camry is 183cm.

LeaseLoco.com adds: “This means that as cars get bigger, parking options are becoming more limited. Experts urge drivers with newer models to be mindful that they may not fit in all parking bays, and parking over the lines can result in fines.”

Experts warn many local councils are issuing fines of £40 for “improper parking”, with some rising to £80 if not paid within two weeks.

“Cars have been getting increasingly larger over the years, and while some drivers prefer them, they may now be too big for Britain’s roads and parking spaces,” Mr Wilmot said.

“The minimum width for an on-street parking bay is 180cm, yet many modern cars already exceed this, making parking more difficult.

“Some drivers may think they can slightly overlap the lines for a quick stop, but in some areas, this can result in fines of up to £80.”

He added: “Government regulations allow cars to be up to 250cm wide, yet most parking bays remain significantly smaller, creating a clear mismatch.

“This disparity is unfair to drivers who risk fines simply because their vehicles don’t fit within standard bays.

“If this trend continues, parking will become even more challenging, leaving more motorists struggling to avoid penalties.”