CLIMATE activists have deflated the tyres of “gas-guzzling luxury cars” parked on city streets as part of action to raise awareness about carbon emissions.

Activists in Brighton placed flyers on the windscreens apologising for targeting the SUVs.

Tyre Extinguishers, who are thought to be a splinter group of Extinction Rebellion, said it wanted to "make it impossible to own an SUV in the UK's urban areas".

A leaflet left on the vehicles reads: “You’ll be angry. But don’t take it personally. It’s not you, it’s your car.

“We did this because driving around urban areas in your massive vehicle has huge consequences for others.

“That’s why we have taken this action. You will have no difficulty getting around without your gas guzzler, with walking, cycling and public transport.”

Sports utility vehicles in parts of London including Chelsea, Chiswick, Notting Hill, and Belgravia have also been targeted.

Other areas in the country said to have been targeted are Bristol, Cambridge, Sheffield, Liverpool and Edinburgh.

Overnight, Tyre Extinguishers claim to have let down the tyres of hundreds of cars in its first action as a protest group.

A spokesman for the group said members want to see bans on SUVs in urban areas, pollution levies to tax SUVs out of existence, and investment in public transport.

He added that until politicians make the demands a reality, Tyre Extinguishers action will continue to act.

Marion Walker, a member of The Tyre Extinguishers said: “Governments and politicians have failed to protect us from these massive unnecessary vehicles. SUVs are a climate disaster, they cause air pollution and are dangerous for other road users.

“Everyone hates them, apart from the people who drive them.”

Tyre Extinguishers said it has posted instructions for how to deflate tyres on its website and is encouraging people to take part.

Sussex Police have been approached for comment.

SUVs are usually defined by their large size and off-road features such as high ground clearance and four-wheel drive.

Similar action has been taken by the group Tyred of SUVs, who have targeted vehicles in Glasgow.