The driver of a luxury car has become the first Australian motorist to be fined for failing to comply with new vehicle licensing laws.
The 36-year-old motorist, who was driving a Lamborghini Huracan, was stopped by police on Queensborough Avenue in Hillcrest, in Adelaide’s northeast, on Sunday.
Officers noted that the vehicle did not have a license plate on the rear and subsequent checks revealed that the driver also did not have a special license to operate the car.
Drivers risk six demerit points and a maximum fine of $2,500 if they break the law. They could also be sent to prison for a year for subsequent violations.
South Australia introduced new laws, which came into effect on Sunday, requiring drivers driving certain vehicles to have a class “U” licence.
A license must be obtained to operate ultra-high power vehicles (UHPVs) that weigh up to 4.5 tons and have a power-to-weight ratio of 276 kilowatts per ton or more.
South Australian Police said in a statement that the motorist was given an expiation notice for driving with an expired license that was not appropriate for the vehicle.
The regulation applies to vehicles considered ‘supercars’ or ‘hypercars’. Buses and motorcycles are exempt from the regulation.
Officers noted that the vehicle (pictured) did not have a number plate on the rear and subsequent checks revealed that the driver also did not have a special license to operate the car.
The new law was introduced following the death of 15-year-old Sophia Naismith.
Sophia was hit by a Lamborghini while walking with her friend Jordyn Callea along Morphett Road in Glengowrie, in the south-west of the city, in 2019.
The $328,000 vehicle crashed into a footpath before hitting both girls and crashing into the front door of the House of Tien restaurant.
Driver Alexander Campbell, 37, was given a suspended sentence in 2022 after he was found not guilty of causing her death.
Campbell had previously pleaded guilty to a charge of aggravated driving without due care.
He was given an 18-month good behavior bond and ordered to perform community service.
South Australia introduced the new law following the death of 15-year-old Sophia Naismith (pictured) after being hit by a Lamborghini in 2019.
Sophia’s family campaigned for legislation to be introduced to protect pedestrians and the community.
State Attorney General Kyam Maher previously said drivers driving a UHPV must obtain the required license.
“If you drive an ultra-high-powered vehicle, you will need to undergo training to have it credited on your licence,” said Mr Maher.
South Australian drivers can obtain a Class U license by completing the Class U license course.
The course will help drivers learn how to safely operate a UHPV and understand the risks associated with driving the vehicles.
Drivers will also learn about the features these vehicles contain, including electronic stability control and automated emergency braking.