Scott Hymas is correct in describing large SUVs as an invasive species (Letters, 31 January). A $200,000 Dodge Ram emits 506g of CO2 for every kilometre travelled, a Subaru Outback 168g/km.
Many large SUV drivers love tailgating, forcing smaller cars to endure many of the notoriously bad hinterland roads at destructive and dangerous speed. It amuses them. Having a belching behemoth is a wonderful ego prop for many, especially young male P-plate drivers who more often than not still live with their parents.
Compared with other countries our emission standards are woeful (think Russia). The Liberal/National government coalition continually resisted change. The present government is still facing strong opposition from vested interests.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
