South Australia has introduced a groundbreaking law requiring special licenses for drivers of ultra-high-performance vehicles (UHPVs), defined as those with a power-to-weight ratio of at least 370 horsepower per 1000 kilograms (2,200 pounds). The law, which took effect on December 1, 2024, also mandates that drivers keep features like traction control engaged at all times.
The regulation aims to ensure safer operation of these high-powered machines on public roads, addressing concerns about inexperienced drivers mishandling the raw power of vehicles like Lamborghinis, McLarens, and Ferraris.
The First Offender: A Lamborghini Driver’s Costly Mistake
Barely hours into the new law’s implementation, a 36-year-old Lamborghini Huracan STO owner earned the dubious honor of being the first person caught driving a UHPV without the required license. Early Sunday morning on December 1, South Australia Police stopped the man on Queensborough Avenue, Hillcrest, after noticing his vehicle lacked a rear license plate.
Upon inspection, officers identified the Lamborghini as a UHPV. A quick check of the driver’s license revealed he did not have the newly mandated “U” class license endorsement.
In a statement shared on Facebook, South Australia Police confirmed the offense: “The officer identified the vehicle as being classed as an UHPV. However, checks on the man’s license revealed that he did not have the required ‘U’ class license endorsement.”
The penalty for the infraction could cost the driver up to $1,625 USD (roughly $2,500 AUD), marking an expensive lesson in compliance with the new law.
Obtaining the UHPV License: Quick, Affordable, and Crucial
Surprisingly, obtaining the special UHPV license is neither time-consuming nor costly. Drivers can earn the license by completing an online exam that takes less than an hour and costs approximately $40 USD ($61 AUD). Despite the simplicity of the process, the law ensures that drivers demonstrate a basic understanding of safely operating vehicles with immense horsepower.
Critics, however, have pointed out the irony of the situation. While the license enables drivers to legally operate their high-performance cars, it does not offer any additional privileges, such as increased speed limits or special road access. The sole benefit is the legal ability to continue driving these vehicles — a requirement many enthusiasts view as an added bureaucratic hurdle.
South Australia’s Long Tradition of Tough Driving Laws
South Australia is no stranger to stringent driving regulations. The state has a long history of enforcing strict motor vehicle laws, particularly concerning dangerous driving behaviors like “hooning.” Repeat offenders in such cases can have their vehicles impounded after just two offenses.
The UHPV license law extends this tradition, reflecting the government’s commitment to ensuring road safety amidst the growing popularity of ultra-high-performance vehicles.
A New Era for High-Performance Driving in Australia
The Lamborghini driver’s case underscores the immediate impact of South Australia’s new UHPV regulations. While the enforcement may initially seem like a hassle for car enthusiasts, the law aims to reduce risks associated with piloting these powerful machines.
As more drivers adapt to this new requirement, it remains to be seen whether the law will succeed in making South Australian roads safer while still accommodating the thrills of driving a high-performance car.
