'Bogan' car demonstrates illegal modifications

Police and the Waimakariri District Road Safety Committee have developed a modified car to educate young people about the dangers of illegal car modifications.

Known as the 'bogan car' the white Mitsubishi Lancer contains a range of faults and modifications which are commonly found on vehicles police stop.

"Many young people don't understand why illegal modifications can be so dangerous," says Sergeant John Robinson, Highway Patrol, Rangiora.

"Some of the illegal modifications include cutting the suspension springs to lower the car, taking off the seat runners, and putting stickers on the headlights," says John.

Since the car was unveiled on 30 March, it has been in hot demand at local shows and events. It will also be taken to high schools.

"Wherever it goes it is a magnet to young people, who think it is pretty cool," says John. "It's a great way to get their attention and gives us the opportunity to not only talk to them about illegal modifications but other road safety issues," says John.

"Some young people are pretty passionate about their cars and we don't want to dampen their enthusiasm. What we are saying is that it is OK to modify their cars but it's really important to make sure the modifications are safe and legal."

John adds that the car is also a valuable training tool for police staff. "Actually seeing some of the modifications helps us to be able to quickly identify what's legal and what's not – especially when you're on the side of the road somewhere."

Most of the modifications were done by Tim Gentleman and his crew of young people on an automotive training course at Y Dot, a Canterbury pre-employment course provider. Local Rangiora car dealer Magnum Prestige donated the car.