Do we need a supercar superlicence?

The question is simple: do we need a superlicence? The answer is rather more complex. Put another way, if you want to drive a powerful car, should you first have to prove your capacity to do so safely?

I have my view but I’m every bit as interested in yours. And because this is such a tricky and nuanced subject, I’ve spoken to several experts as well as two supercar manufacturers in an effort to understand the ins and outs. It’s left me feeling something really ought to be done.

A superlicence test might be easy to pass or very challenging; it could be a theoretical assessment or mostly practical; it might apply to everybody or only the young. Moreover, how do we define what constitutes a powerful car? Today there are hatchbacks running around with more power than the Ferrari flagship of 40 years ago. And should the measure not really be power-to-weight ratio?