Racing Laziness: Where Do India’s Superbike and Supercar Owners Find Their Thrills?
India is home to a thriving automotive enthusiast community, with a growing number of supercar and superbike owners eager to savor the sheer power and performance of their prized possessions. Yet, in a city like Delhi, where the average speed of supercars is 22–25 km/h, finding the perfect place to truly enjoy their machines can be a challenge.
The Two Types of Supercar Owners
There are essentially two types of supercar owners in India. The first type is the driven owner. These enthusiasts embrace every opportunity to unleash the full power of their vehicles, often participating in track days or heading out on thrilling open-road drives. The enthusiasm of these owners is palpable, and the excitement of carving through turns and enjoying the car's performance is evident.
On the other hand, the second type is the driven owner, but in a different sense. These individuals often use their supercars primarily as status symbols, chauffeured to glamorous parties or high-speed drives around the ring road of Delhi. While these drives may offer a sense of prestige, they fall far short of providing the exhilarating experience that truly passionate drivers are after.
The Pitfalls of Delhi Traffic
Delhi’s congested roads and poor traffic conditions pose significant challenges for owners of high-performance vehicles. Driving at average speeds of 22–25 kilometers per hour means that the inherent capabilities of these ultra-luxury cars cannot be fully realized. Moreover, the very act of trying to accelerate and impress on public roads can lead to dangerous scenarios, as evidenced by the alarming number of accidents involving speeding and reckless driving. These incidents often result in total vehicle damage, putting both the drivers and the public at risk.
A Vision for Better Opportunities
To address these issues, there is a pressing need for cities to provide designated and safe spaces where these cars can be driven to their full potential. For instance, F1 tracks like the one in Noida offer a prime example of how structured and controlled environments can enhance the driving experience. Similarly, the runways at the Safdarjung airport could be repurposed for evening events, provided the necessary safety measures are in place.
Opening up specific areas for paid driving events would not only cater to the needs of the "driven" owners but also promote a safer and more enjoyable driving environment for all.
Revitalizing the Thrill of Driving
For Indian supercar and superbike owners who yearn for the freedom to truly experience the power and performance of their vehicles, the creation of designated driving tracks and safe venues is a critical step forward. By providing such spaces, cities can help reignite the passion for driving and foster a culture of responsible and exhilarating automotive experiences.
Conclusion
The quest for thrilling driving in India's bustling cities is a reflection of the inherent need for adventure and enjoyment that drives many automotive enthusiasts. While the current road conditions may limit the potential of supercars and superbikes, the vision to create safe and dedicated spaces opens a door to a future where the real thrill of driving can be experienced.