Oh yeah...
I also think the climate plays a role. We have extremes of temperatures from -40C to +35C . The accessories need to be bigger and stronger,bigger heater core, bigger fans for heating and cooling,bigger battery, plus heavier insulation,beefier engine components,engine block heaters,thicker paint/rust proofing (damn salt !! ) bigger starter motor for when the oil is as thick as treacle etc.
This all adds to the weight of the vehicles.
Now if all SUV's were banned, I'd be very happy
