Environmental activists in Bristol have now started to target random SUVs by deflating tyres, scratching vehicles or covering them with paint.
The eco-warriors have politely left notes on windscreens saying ‘your gas guzzler kills’ before rendering the vehicles either temporarily useless or with permanent damage.
And if you think because you have a hybrid or an electric vehicle you’ll be safe from these seemingly above-the-law criminals, think again.
A Tesla owner in Bristol said his tyres were deflated when he went out to walk his dog and told the BBC there was ‘something comical about it’ but he felt ‘slightly violated’.
He added: "It's ironic because I was trying to do the right thing by buying an electric car.
"I get why [climate activism] is happening, but I'm not seeing the point of this."
The group behind the vandalism is called the Tyre Extinguishers and a spokesperson for them said: "Hybrids and electric cars are fair game.
"We cannot electrify our way out of the climate crisis - there are not enough rare earth metals to replace everyone's car and the mining of these metals causes suffering.
"Plus, the danger to other road users still stands."
Mark Moran MBE, Chief Executive of Hydrate for Health Ltd, has previously fallen victim to the group. He said: ‘Many [drivers] have been hit multiple times - mine twice for tyres and once for paint.
"They are simply a faceless bunch of eco-warriors who want to force their will upon people, with zero rational debate."
Avon and Somerset Police said they received complaints and have appealed for CCTV or doorbell footage from the local area; "We believe these incidents are connected to a national environmental protest group, which has previously targeted SUV vehicles in the area.
"On this occasion, one of the vehicles was scratched after the suspects were unsuccessful in letting down the tyres.
"We are encouraging anyone with any CCTV or doorbell footage in Merchants Road, The Fossway, Clifton Down Road or Manilla Road areas to get in touch."
