Drivers in South Australia will soon be required to undergo a special course in order to get behind the wheel of ultra high-powered vehicles, while also being banned from turning off driver aids such as traction control and electronic stability control system
South Australia has become the first state in the country to introduce a special driver licence specifically for 'ultra high-powered vehicles', set to come into effect on 1 December 2024.
An ultra high-powered vehicle (UHPV) is defined by authorities as having a power-to-weight ratio of at least 276kW per tonne (1000kg), with a gross vehicle mass of less than 4.5 tonnes – with around 200 models believed to fall into that category. Buses and motorcycles are exempt.
For example, a Lamborghini Huracan supercar quotes a power-to-weight ratio of 292kW per tonne – while a BMW M3 performance sedan quotes 222kW per tonne.
The new 'U class' licence category was introduced as an amendment to the Motor Vehicles Regulations 2010 in late 2022. However it is only now that the South Australian Government has confirmed a date for its implementation following speculation on social media.
Those wishing to obtain a U class licence will be required to complete an online training course.
"This course is currently being developed and will ensure a person is aware of the risks associated with driving an UHPV and the use of common vehicle features within Advanced Driver Assistance Systems," a spokesperson for the South Australian Department of Transportation said.
SOURCE: https://www.drive.com.au/news/south-australia-announces-licence-for-ultra-high-powered-vehicles/
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