Why cars are being found on their sides outside French homes
The mystery has been solved by police after rising reports of the incidents across the country, with models such as the Renault Twingo and Clio and Toyota Prius most affected
Lighter, smaller cars such as the Renault Twingo are most at risk of the issue
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The mystery of why some cars have been found turned on their sides across France apparently without explanation has been solved.
The phenomenon was reported in Ari猫ge (Occitanie) most recently, but police have heard incidents of the issue from all over the country over the past few weeks, including around 15 in Oise in northern France alone.
Despite its mysterious appearance, the phenomenon has a more prosaic explanation; it is a technique used by thieves to steal the car鈥檚 catalytic converter.
These parts are fetching high prices on the black market, and contain precious metals such as palladium or rhodium, the latter of which is currently selling at prices 11 times higher than gold.
Certain smaller cars are easier to turn on their sides than others, including the Renault Twingo and Clio, and the Toyota Prius and Auris, which explains why these models have been most affected.
Jean-Pierre Reynaud, colonel gendarmerie in Loiret, said: 鈥淚t鈥檚 a very well-structured and organised network, with the capacity to transport and sell [the parts].鈥�
Without a catalytic converter 鈥� which aims to reduce the harmfulness of exhaust fumes 鈥� cars are unusable.
One mechanic : 鈥淚f the entire part has been stolen, it can cost 鈧�1,500 to fix.鈥�
One recent victim, St茅phan Pivot, whose car is being repaired, said: 鈥淚 live in a village, and I can鈥檛 do anything without a car - not even go to the pharmacy. I now have to ask someone [for a lift].鈥�
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