A striking lime green Lamborghini Huracan caught the attention of the PSNI’s Road Policing Interceptors in Northern Ireland. This attention wasn’t due to its vibrant color or the brand’s infamous reputation for high performance. Instead, it was an unusual detail – the Huracan was missing its front number plate.
The local police noted the incident on social media, stating, “This lovely Lambo came to Road Policing Interceptors’ notice due to the missing front registration plate. The driver has been issued a £30.00 and provided with advice on how to display a number plate in the future.”
The Online Debate: Style or Legality
The incident sparked a debate among online users, with some stating that a front registration plate would “entirely ruin the look of the front” of the glamorous vehicle. Nevertheless, current UK law is explicit, numbers or license plates must correctly display driving registration numbers. Manipulating or rearranging the letters or numbers in a way that hampers readability is strictly prohibited. Penalties for breaching these regulations are steep, with fines up to £1,000 and automatic failure of the vehicle’s MOT test.
Why Some Owners Remove Front Number Plates?
The primary reason is aesthetics. These car owners believe their vehicles’ appearance is enhanced without a front number plate. Many car enthusiasts may agree, acknowledging these luxurious machines’ sleek design and unobstructed front view.
But also where and how are you going to put the plate? Nobody wants to drill holes in their expensive Lambo so it is safe to say that there is no winning here, and if you are only going to drive the car a few days a year, like most owners, it makes sense to take your chance with law enforcement.
The Legal Stance: USA 1 – Europe 0
While the absence of a front number plate may be permissible in some parts of the world like in the USA. It is a strict legal requirement in Europe, including the UK. As a result, these supercar owners engage in an act that, while potentially enhancing their car’s appearance, is absolutely illegal in Europe.