UK weighs “superlicence” requirement for cars over 400 horsepower
Supercars are not designed to be say to drive or intuitive. Driving them safely requires some extra skills. The UK government is reportedly weighing a tiered license program, and requiring two days of training plus a second road test to get a superlicence and operate a more powerful vehicle. I’ve long argued for a similar program in the states, though I think the UK variation is a bit too strict.
The rumored superlicence program is poised to change driving in the UK
An online automotive magazine called “The Intercooler” reports that the “highest levels” of the UK government have given a Superlicence program the go-ahead. The DOT is now working out the details. A junior minister accidentally revealed the cutoff will be 400 bhp. I think that’s a bit low. In the EV era, 400 horsepower is grocery-getter numbers. And in the UK program, that number doesn’t scale with the car’s weight or other important performance factors.
Reporters predict the cutoff age to apply for a Superlicence will be 28. I think that’s a bit high. And the entire policy is= ageist. You could require drivers to hold a regular license for a decade and be in good standing before applying. That would accomplish essentially the same thing, but wouldn’t discriminate against younger folks.
So what do I like about the program? Performance cars are getting insanely powerful. A 16-year-old with a brand new license buying a Hellcat is a recipe for trouble. EVs are pushing for even higher numbers. We should do something. And soon.
I think the US motorcycle safety test is a good example. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation and brands such as Harley Davidson offer two day courses. These are a great place to practice low-speed maneuvering and connect with other riders. And after the course, it’s relatively easy to pass the test. Most course instructors administer the test at the end of the course. I think the supercar community should embrace a similar system.
The rumor is that the UK Superlicence program will require a yearly refresher with a one-day course. Again, that seems a bit strict. Yearly refreshers are asking a lot of time and money from an average enthusiast. But I’m not against refresher tests every five or ten years. Heck, I think all drivers at every license level should pass them. It’ll be interesting to see the final form of the UK Superlicence program. I hope the U.S. passes something similar, soon.
