A learner driver who allegedly raced through traffic in a three-wheeled car, leading police on a dangerous pursuit at speeds of up to 180kph before crashing into two cars, has been accused of coughing on an officer and claiming he had returned from China.

Key points: The 20-year-old man will face court on driving and assault charges

The 20-year-old man will face court on driving and assault charges Police say the driver allegedly crashed into two people and assaulted an officer after a dangerous car chase

Police say the driver allegedly crashed into two people and assaulted an officer after a dangerous car chase During his arrest, the man allegedly coughed on a police officer and claimed he had been to China

Police said the stolen car, which was missing a wheel on its right side, was spotted north of Canberra about 8:30am on Friday, tearing along the Barton Highway at an estimated 140kph.

The car, which had allegedly been involved in a police matter in NSW earlier that day, was emitting sparks from the rear, due to its missing wheel.

Police then followed the car as it swerved in and out of traffic, and drove around another police vehicle attempting to stop it.

Officers estimated the car reached speeds of 178kph in an 80kph zone as it weaved dangerously through traffic in an attempt to flee police.

On William Slim Drive, the man allegedly crossed onto the oncoming lane to overtake several vehicles, doing so again as he continued south.

As the 20-year-old man allegedly passed through a red light while in the oncoming lane, he crashed into two other cars at the Ginninderra Drive intersection.

He was arrested, at which point police allege he coughed on an officer and told them he had just returned from China.

He has been charged with failing to stop for police, assault, dangerous driving, driving a stolen vehicle and being an unaccompanied learner driver.

Ambulance officers treated those involved in the collision, and the two people from one of the cars hit were taken to hospital.

The man was expected to face the ACT Magistrates Court on Saturday.