Madrid's parking meters now charge extra if you drive a fuel hog

07 Jul 2014 • engadget.com

As of today, the city’s smart parking meters charge up to 20 percent extra if you drive a car that’s likely to either be a fuel hog or put out a lot of exhaust fumes, such as pre-2006 diesels. Conversely, you’ll get a discount as high as 20 percent if you’re driving a newer (and presumably cleaner-running) car; it’s completely free if you’re using an electric vehicle. The system is based on a simple license plate check, although it’s accompanied by parking space sensors that make you pay more if you’re using up one of the last available spots.

The best part is the paying more for the last spots. I’m a big believer in the Freakonomics stuff. In their podcast Parking is Hell they explain one interesting solution to urban congestion: no more free parking. It’s worth a listen.