Belgian Minister Jean‑Luc Crucke proposes limits on powerful cars for young drivers

Belgian Mobility Minister Jean‑Luc Crucke is opening a debate on introducing a phased restriction on high‑power vehicles for drivers with a provisional or probationary licence. The proposal follows a French initiative under the RIPOST law that limits powerful cars for novice drivers, though the exact power threshold in France has not yet been defined.

Crucke points to Italy’s existing system, which since December 2024 caps the power‑to‑weight ratio at 75 kW per tonne and sets a maximum of 105 kW (about 142 hp) for passenger cars during the first three years of driving. Belgium currently has no such limits, allowing new drivers to operate any car regardless of power. The minister is considering a gradual approach, possibly around a 200 hp ceiling, while also weighing concerns about families needing a second, less powerful vehicle and the impact on young people’s employment opportunities.