The curb weight of the motorcycle. The concepts of full, curb and maximum permissible masses of the car. The concept of payload mass


In the automotive industry and everything connected with this area, 2 such basic concepts are used as the curb weight of a car and full mass cars. These two characteristics are those that are necessarily talked about in theoretical classes taking place in a car school. However, many, even very experienced, drivers do not know or simply have forgotten what lies under this terminology.

What is the curb weight of the car


The curb weight of the car is the total, i.e. total weight of the machine with a set standard equipment, all its operational consumables that are needed (for example, coolant and engine oil), a fully filled vehicle fuel tank, the weight of the driver, but without the weight of the cargo and the weight of the passengers.

What is the gross weight of the machine


The total mass of the car, or, as it is also called, the gross permissible weight, is the mass of the car, which is the maximum allowable and includes: the weight of the driver, the weight of the passengers, the weight of the entire equipped car, as well as the weight of the cargo that is transported by the car.

What is the difference between curb weight and gross vehicle weight?

If you understand the differences between these two concepts, then the point is what exactly is included and summed up in the total mass indicator. In contrast to the indicator of the curb weight of a car, the indicator of its gross weight also takes into account the weight of the driver, the weight of the passengers of the car, and the mass of the goods that are (transported) in it.

It is absolutely natural that people are all different - each person has a different weight. The same applies to the luggage of the car - some drivers can “stuff” the car so that it cannot move from its place, and some are more careful and transport goods within reason. In this regard, most often among motorists, such a concept as “permissible gross vehicle weight” is used. Each car has its own highest permitted mark, it all depends on the manufacturer, the materials that were used in the production process of the car, as well as the structure car body and other load-bearing parts of the machine. It is important not to load your own car so that this figure is exceeded. If this is not adhered to, then gradually during the operation of the car its body, bridge systems, as well as many other parts that are fixed to the car suspension will be deformed. It is also necessary to take into account the fact that with the full curb weight of the car - fuel, it will absorb much more.

In the automotive industry and everything related to this area, 2 such basic concepts are used as the curb weight of a car and the gross weight of the car. These two characteristics are those that are necessarily talked about in theoretical classes taking place in a car school. However, many, even very experienced, drivers do not know or simply have forgotten what lies under this terminology.

What is the curb weight of the car

The curb weight of the car is the total, i.e. the total weight of the car with a set of standard equipment, all its operating consumables that are needed (for example, coolant and engine oil), a tank full of automotive fuel, the weight of the driver, but without the weight of cargo and the weight of passengers.

What is the gross weight of the machine



The total mass of the car, or, as it is also called, the gross permissible weight, is the mass of the car, which is the maximum allowable and includes: the weight of the driver, the weight of the passengers, the weight of the entire equipped car, as well as the weight of the cargo that is transported by the car.

What is the difference between curb weight and gross vehicle weight?

If you understand the differences between these two concepts, then the point is what exactly is included and summed up in the total mass indicator. In contrast to the indicator of the curb weight of a car, the indicator of its gross weight also takes into account the weight of the driver, the weight of the passengers of the car, and the mass of the goods that are (transported) in it.

It is absolutely natural that people are all different - each person has a different weight. The same applies to the luggage of the car - some drivers can “stuff” the car so that it cannot move from its place, and some are more careful and transport goods within reason. In this regard, most often among motorists, such a concept as “permissible gross vehicle weight” is used. Each car has its own highest permitted mark, it all depends on the manufacturer, the materials that were used in the production process of the car, as well as the structure of the car body and other load-bearing parts of the car. It is important not to load your own car so that this figure is exceeded. If this is not adhered to, then gradually during the operation of the car its body, bridge systems, as well as many other parts that are fixed to the car suspension will be deformed. It is also necessary to take into account the fact that with the full curb weight of the car - fuel, it will absorb much more.

Passenger car - a car designed to carry passengers and luggage, with a capacity of 2 to 8 people. With more seats for passengers, the car is considered a bus (minibus). The first car was created in 1876.

Passenger car classification

I would like to note that the classification of passenger cars as a class of wheeled vehicles, and within this class, is in itself quite conditional: some cars may be “transitional” between classes, and even, by all indications, belong to two or more classes at the same time .

In addition, the classes themselves change their definition, the size of cars, and so on. This is best illustrated by the constant physical growth of the same model line. For example, the BMW 3 Series, which debuted as a very compact car, by now has grown so much that it brought to life the 1st series of BMW.

In addition, the classification of cars is highly dependent on the specifics of the country's legislation. So, for example, in Russia, cars belonging to the passenger class cannot have a gross weight of more than 3500 kg, and in the USA - 8600 pounds (3904 kg); in Germany, a station wagon or hatchback car, provided that the rear seats and belts are removed and the rear side windows are painted over, can be registered as a truck; in the USA for a long time all off-road vehicles were considered "truck" (truck), regardless of weight and size; customs regulations of the Russian Federation require that an imported vehicle with a maximum authorized weight of up to 3500 kg be registered as a truck - if the mass of the payload exceeds the mass of passengers and the driver (75 kg per seat), and a passenger car - if the mass of the driver and passengers exceeds the allowable mass of the payload ; etc.

Passenger cars by class

    • Class A 3-door and 5-door hatchback. Small dimensions - length - no more than 3600, width - no more than 1520
    • Class B 3- and 5-door hatchbacks, rarely sedans, length 3500-3900, width 1520-1630
    • Class C. Hatchback, sedan, station wagon or UPV. Length 3.9 - 4.4m. Width 1.6 - 1.75m
    • Class D Hatchback, sedan, station wagon and high-capacity station wagons. Length 4.4 - 4.7 m. Width 1.7 - 1.8m
    • Class E Sedans and station wagons. Length over 4.6m. Width over 1.7m
    • Class F. Sedans, limousines. Length over 4.6m. Width over 1.7m
    • Minivans and high-capacity vehicles. Hatchback, sedan, station wagon or UPV
    • SUVs. 3- or 5-door wagons, less often with a removable soft top. Capacity - from 4 to 9 seats. The purpose is quite universal, although it can be very specific.
    • coupe. Coupe with a capacity of 2 or 4 seats
    • open body. Convertibles, roadsters and spiders

In real realities, you can also classify cars according to their purpose.

"Passenger Cars". Designed to carry passengers and/or a small amount of cargo on improved roads. They do not have increased cross-country ability (even with all-wheel drive!), Driving off the road or overcoming a small ford can be carried out exclusively “at the risk and peril” of the driver. A subclass of "passenger cars" are "sports cars".

These cars are not race cars, but are designed to provide increased driving pleasure to their owner. The range of "sporty" solutions can start from the installation by the Manufacturer of a "sports body kit" on an ordinary model (for example, Chevrolet Lacetti WTCC, Opel Vectra OPC-line), and ending with the release of highly dynamic models (Honda NSX, Chevrolet Corvette, Lamborgini Murcelado ...) - "SUVs".

This class of cars can be operated in real off-road conditions and is structurally adapted to this. - The now popular class of "crossovers" (they are also "SUVs") is intermediate between passenger and SUVs.

These cars have a cross-country ability increased relative to "passenger cars", but do not have complete set off-road qualities and do not allow to overcome serious impassability. - "commercial" cars are often created on the basis of "passenger cars", but at the same time they are intended mainly for the transportation of small consignments in the interests of business, and not only.

Interestingly, there is a tendency to “return” to the function of a passenger car: for example, on the basis of the popular Opel Corsa, an Opel Combo cargo van was created, in which a volume of about 3 m3 for cargo is organized behind the backs of the front seats, and the Opel Combo Tour is immediately offered, where in a spacious , previously cargo compartment, passenger seats are installed. From a purely “passenger passenger” progenitor, such a car (like many competitors) differs much more spacious interior and high ceiling.

Classification of other passenger cars

G1 - coupe
G2 - premium coupe
H1 - convertibles and roadsters
H2 - premium convertibles and roadsters
I - off-road station wagons
K1 - light SUVs
K2 - medium SUVs
K3 - heavy SUVs
K4 - pickups
L - minivans
M - small commercial

Cars include passenger cars for up to 8 people, including the driver.

Cars are classified by purpose, by class, by general layout, by body type.

Passenger cars are divided into general purpose cars and cars according to their purpose. off-road. The purpose depends on the ability of this model to move in various road conditions.

General purpose vehicles are designed to drive on roads of various categories, mainly on highways. General purpose vehicles include VAZ, GAZ, KIA, Volga, etc.

Off-road vehicles can move off-road, designed for operation not only on paved roads, but also in off-road conditions. Cross-country vehicles include Niva and UAZ vehicles.

Depending on the overall layout, domestic cars are divided into rear-wheel drive (classic layout), front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

The classic layout assumes the location of the engine above the axis of the front wheels. Wheel formula of such cars: 4x2. The drive to the drive wheels of the rear axle is carried out by means of a cardan shaft. For example: VAZ-2107 "Lada", GAZ-3110 "Volga".

The front-wheel drive layout has become known in our country relatively recently. According to this scheme, the engine and transmission are located directly above the front axle, representing a common power unit with torque output to the front wheels. The entire assembly is compactly located in the front of the body. Wheel formula: 2x4. Examples: VAZ-2170 "Priora", KamAZ-11113 "Oka". All-wheel drive layout" assumes the location of the engine and drive to the rear axle similar to the classical scheme, and for the front axle drive there are transfer case, center differential and second propeller shaft. Examples: "Chevrolet - Niva", UAZ Hunter.

According to the number of compartments in the body, domestic passenger cars are divided into two-volume (VAZ-2120 "Nadezhda", VAZ-2111 "Lada", BA3-21093 "Samara") and three-volume (GAZ-3102 "Volga", VAZ-2115 "Samara") .

The class of the car depends on the working volume of the engine cylinders, expressed in liters, and on its unloaded weight. Limit indicators for classes are given in table.

Division of cars by class

European classification cars

Cars of an especially small class are designed for 4 people, other models - for 5 people.

According to the body type, modern domestic passenger cars can have a body type: sedan, hatchback, station wagon, pickup truck and van.

Basic models of passenger cars are assigned a four-digit index, in which the first digit indicates the class of the car, the second - the type of car, and the third and

the fourth indicates its model number. To indicate modifications basic models vehicles, additional figures may be added to the index.

The full model designation includes the abbreviated name of the manufacturer.

For example: VAZ-21109 "Consul", where VAZ is the Volga Automobile Plant; 2 - car class; 1 - type (car); 10 - base model number; 9 - modification number (4-seater limousine) "Consul" - trade mark.

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All about the curb weight of the car

In the world of cars, this term is very common. But not everyone can still know what the curb weight of a car is. Usually they talk about this in a driving school, but then everything gets confused, since the concepts are forgotten.

This term implies the mass of the car without passengers, as well as without a driver. But this mass includes all the necessary equipment and consumables, take, for example, engine oil. A full tank of fuel, as well as engine coolant, is also included in the curb weight of the car. That is, this is how much an empty vehicle weighs, which is fully refueled and ready to go.

It is necessary to distinguish curb weight from dry and full allowable mass s. Dry weight is the weight of an unfilled car without equipment. And the gross permissible mass is the weight of a fully loaded vehicle. It is better not to exceed this indicator, then your car will always be in good condition.

How to find out the mass of the car. Curb weight of the vehicle and gross

In the automotive industry and everything related to this area, 2 such basic concepts are used as the curb weight of a car and the gross weight of the car. These two characteristics are those that are necessarily talked about in theoretical classes taking place in a car school. However, many, even very experienced, drivers do not know or simply have forgotten what lies under this terminology.

What is the curb weight of the car

The curb weight of the car is the total, i.e. the total weight of the machine with a set of standard equipment, all its operating consumables that are needed (for example, coolant and engine oil), a fully filled tank of automotive fuel, the weight of the driver, but without the mass of cargo and the weight of passengers.

What is the gross weight of the machine

Gross vehicle weight, or, as it is also called, the gross permitted weight, is the mass of the car, which is the maximum allowable and includes: the weight of the driver, the weight of passengers, the weight of the entire equipped car, as well as the weight of the cargo that is transported by the car.

What is the difference between curb weight and gross vehicle weight?

If you understand the differences between these two concepts, then the point is what exactly is included and summed up in the total mass indicator. In contrast to the indicator of the curb weight of a car, the indicator of its gross weight also takes into account the weight of the driver, the weight of the passengers of the car, and the mass of the goods that are (transported) in it.

It is absolutely natural that people are all different - each person has a different weight. The same applies to the luggage of the car - some drivers can “stuff” the car so that it cannot move from its place, and some are more careful and transport goods within reason. In this regard, most often among motorists, such a concept as “permissible gross vehicle weight” is used. Each car has its own highest permitted mark, it all depends on the manufacturer, the materials that were used in the production process of the car, as well as the structure of the car body and other load-bearing parts of the car. It is important not to load your own car so that this figure is exceeded. If this is not adhered to, then gradually during the operation of the car its body, bridge systems, as well as many other parts that are fixed to the car suspension will be deformed. It is also necessary to take into account the fact that with the full curb weight of the car - fuel, it will absorb much more.

Passenger car - a car designed to carry passengers and luggage, with a capacity of 2 to 8 people. With more seats for passengers, the car is considered a bus (minibus). The first car was created in 1876.

Passenger car classification

I would like to note that the classification of cars as a class of wheeled Vehicle, and within this class, is itself quite conditional: some cars can be “transitional” between classes, and even, by all indications, belong to two or more classes at the same time.

In addition, the classes themselves change their definition, the size of cars, and so on. This is best illustrated by the constant physical growth of the same model line. For example, the BMW 3 Series, which debuted as a very compact car, has now grown so much that it gave rise to the BMW 1 Series.

In addition, the classification of cars is highly dependent on the specifics of the country's legislation. So, for example, in Russia, cars belonging to the passenger class cannot have a gross weight of more than 3500 kg, and in the USA - 8600 pounds (3904 kg); in Germany, a passenger car with a station wagon or hatchback body, subject to dismantling rear seats and belts and painting of the rear side windows can be registered as a truck; in the US for a long time off-road vehicles were considered "truck" (truck), regardless of weight and size; customs regulations of the Russian Federation require that an imported vehicle with a maximum authorized weight of up to 3500 kg be registered as a truck - if the mass of the payload exceeds the mass of passengers and the driver (75 kg per seat), and a passenger car - if the mass of the driver and passengers exceeds the allowable mass of the payload ; etc.

Passenger cars by class

    • Class A 3-door and 5-door hatchback. Small dimensions - length - no more than 3600, width - no more than 1520
    • Class B 3- and 5-door hatchbacks, rarely sedans, length 3500-3900, width 1520-1630
    • Class C. Hatchback, sedan, station wagon or UPV. Length 3.9 - 4.4m. Width 1.6 - 1.75m
    • Class D Hatchback, sedan, station wagon and high-capacity station wagons. Length 4.4 - 4.7 m. Width 1.7 - 1.8m
    • Class E Sedans and station wagons. Length over 4.6m. Width over 1.7m
    • Class F. Sedans, limousines. Length over 4.6m. Width over 1.7m
    • Minivans and high-capacity vehicles. Hatchback, sedan, station wagon or UPV
    • SUVs. 3- or 5-door wagons, less often with a removable soft top. Capacity - from 4 to 9 seats. The purpose is quite universal, although it can be very specific.
    • coupe. Coupe with a capacity of 2 or 4 seats
    • FROM open body . Convertibles, roadsters and spiders

In real realities, you can also classify cars according to their purpose.

"Passenger Cars". Designed to carry passengers and/or a small amount of cargo on improved roads. They do not have increased cross-country ability (even in the presence of all-wheel drive!), leaving the road or overcoming a small ford can be carried out exclusively “at the risk and peril” of the driver. A subclass of "passenger cars" are "sports cars".

These cars are not race cars, but are designed to provide increased driving pleasure to their owner. The range of "sporty" solutions can start from the installation by the Manufacturer of a "sports body kit" on an ordinary model (for example, Chevrolet Lacetti WTCC, Opel Vectra OPC-line), and ending with the release of highly dynamic models (Honda NSX, Chevrolet Corvette, Lamborgini Murcelado ...) - "Off-road vehicles ".

This class of cars can be operated in real off-road conditions and is structurally adapted to this. - The now popular class of "crossovers" (they are also "SUVs") is intermediate between passenger and SUVs.

These cars have a higher cross-country ability than "passenger cars", but they do not have a full set of off-road qualities and do not allow to overcome serious off-road conditions. - "commercial" cars are often created on the basis of "passenger cars", but at the same time they are intended mainly for the transportation of small consignments in the interests of business, and not only.

Interestingly, there is a tendency to "return" to the function of a passenger car: for example, based on the popular Opel Corsa created cargo van Opel Combo, in which a volume of about 3 m3 for cargo is organized behind the backs of the front seats, and the Opel Combo Tour is immediately offered, where passenger seats are installed in a spacious, previously cargo compartment. Such a car (like many competitors) differs from a purely “passenger passenger” progenitor in a much more spacious interior and high ceiling.

Classification of other passenger cars

G1 - coupe
G2 - premium coupe
H1 - convertibles and roadsters
H2 - premium convertibles and roadsters
I - off-road station wagons
K1 - light SUVs
K2 - medium SUVs
K3 - heavy SUVs
K4 - pickups
L - minivans
M - small commercial

Cars include passenger cars with a capacity of up to 8 people, including the driver.

Cars are classified by purpose, by class, by general layout, by body type.

According to their purpose, cars are divided into general purpose cars and off-road cars. The purpose depends on the ability of this model to move in various road conditions.

General purpose vehicles are designed for driving on roads of various categories, mainly on highways. General purpose vehicles include VAZ, GAZ, KIA, Volga, etc.

Off-road vehicles can move off-road, designed for operation not only on paved roads, but also in off-road conditions. Cross-country vehicles include Niva and UAZ vehicles.

Depending on the overall layout domestic cars divided into rear-wheel drive (classic layout), front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive

The classic layout assumes the location of the engine above the axis of the front wheels. Wheel formula of such cars: 4×2. The drive to the drive wheels of the rear axle is carried out by means of cardan shaft. For example: VAZ-2107 "Lada", GAZ-3110 "Volga".

The class of the car depends on the working volume of the engine cylinders, expressed in liters, and on its unloaded weight. Limit indicators for classes are given in table.

Division of cars by class

European classification of passenger cars

Cars of an especially small class are designed for 4 people, other models - for 5 people.

According to the body type, modern domestic passenger cars can have a body type: sedan, hatchback, station wagon, pickup truck and van.

The basic models of passenger cars are assigned a four-digit index, in which the first digit indicates the class of the car, the second - the type of car, and the third and

the fourth indicates its model number. Additional numbers may be added to the index to indicate modifications to basic car models.

The full model designation includes the abbreviated name of the manufacturer.

What is the curb weight of the car. Vehicle dimensions and weight

In the automotive industry, there are such terms as: gross and curb weight. These terms are those that are necessarily talked about in the theory of driving schools. But, today, even many drivers with great experience do not remember or do not know about it. The curb weight of the machine is the total weight of the machine with the necessary equipment, all materials that are needed during the operation of the machine, full tank fuel, driver's weight, but excluding passenger weight and cargo weight.

Gross weight is considered the mass of the car, which is the maximum possible and consists of: the weight of the driver and passengers, the weight of the equipped car, as well as the weight of cargo.

What is the difference between curb weight and gross vehicle weight?

If you understand the differences between these concepts, then the whole point comes down to what exactly can be included and summed up in the general criterion of mass. Compared with the value of the curb weight of the car, in the indicator of its gross weight, the weight of the driver, and the weight of all passengers, as well as the weight of the luggage carried.

Gross weight = vehicle weight + weight of all people in the vehicle + cargo in the luggage compartment.

Curb weight = vehicle weight without additional weights.

Of course, each person's weight is different. The same can be said for luggage. Therefore, drivers use concepts such as "permissible gross vehicle weight." Each car has its own highest resolvable indicator, everything will depend on the manufacturer, the materials from which the car is made, as well as the shape of the car body, etc.

Do not overload the machine. If this is not observed, then during the use of the car, the body, bridge systems, and also other parts that need to be fixed to the suspension of the car will deform. And do not forget that, subject to the full curb weight of the car, fuel will be consumed in large volumes. Also, weight is always taken into account when using a two-post lift.

All of the above tips for motorists are quite important information, especially if the driver does not have sufficient driving experience behind him. They should not be neglected or ignored. Because sometimes even experienced drivers and the driver commit certain actions that may not seem ridiculous and trifling at first glance, but which can lead to consequences. Therefore, be careful and careful when driving.

A car is a complex system that consists of many nodes. Thanks to their coordinated work, normal movement becomes possible. Every year electronics plays an increasingly important role in this structure.

The on-board network provides control and security. In addition, in modern cars, a variety of sensors and computer systems are responsible for a huge number of processes.

Along with increased safety and comfort, the speed limit increases. Just a hundred years ago, cars could top out at 40 miles per hour. Now they are able to reach 100 kilometers in 4 seconds, and this is not the limit.

Modern manufacturers spend a lot of money and time to improve aerodynamic parameters and reduce weight. Unfortunately, motorists often forget about the last parameter. This is not surprising, since attention is primarily focused on the number Horse power, appearance and the number of cylinders.

It's just the weight that matters. The less the car weighs, the faster it accelerates to 100 kilometers per hour. Yes, and the upper bar of the maximum speed is raised a lot. In addition, a lighter vehicle is much easier to drive. It is easier to keep on the track and get out of corners. If the balance is done correctly, of course.

How the weight of cars affected the engineering industry

Automobile manufacturers have long recognized the importance of low weight for dynamic performance. As a result, they tried their best to reduce the size of the main nodes. As evidence, we can recall the invention of the V-engine. He allowed to halve the space under the hood of the car.

Attention! Increasingly, car manufacturers are using modern materials with high strength and low weight in the design.

An example is Lykan Hypersport. Its body is made of carbon fiber. Due to which the weight of the car is 1380 kilograms. At the same time, the car accelerates to hundreds in 2.8 seconds.

Table of average weight of popular cars

To understand what is modern automotive manufacturers tend to reduce the weight of their creations, just look at the table below.

Curb weight (kg.)

3962, 452 (loaf)

Focus 2 (focus 2)

Focus 3 (focus 3)

Land Cruiser ( land cruiser)

Modern cars rarely cross the border of 1500 kilograms. Of course, there are exceptions like Ford Kuga, but they only confirm to a greater extent general rule, which says that the less the car weighs, the better for the consumer.

It's not just about better maneuverability and greater speed. A car with a low weight requires significantly less energy to move. As a result, much less fuel is wasted. An important confirmation of this thesis is the ever-growing popularity parquet SUVs, which hang relatively little and are a fairly economical mode of transport.

If we talk about general indicators, then they range from one ton to 1.5. An interesting trend is the growth of the segment of minicars. The weight of such machines can be less than a thousand kilograms. Leading experts attribute this to the same desire of people to save money. In addition, small cars are much easier to park in the city. Especially when there is a shortage of free parking.

A small digression into history

It is best to watch how the weight of cars changed in dynamism. Let's take the cars of the 50s of the last century. They were real monsters. As an example that well illustrates the general trend, we can recall the Cadillac Eldorado 8.2. Its mass was three tons, and this was far from the limit in those days.

But with the onset of the oil crisis, automakers had to find other ways to reach the hearts of consumers. The weight reduction has helped to significantly reduce fuel consumption. In addition, it had a positive effect on handling.

Automakers of that time managed to achieve weight reduction through the use of materials such as:

Automotive magnates are now investing millions in research related to the search for strong and lightweight materials.

Average vehicle weight by type

There are many types of cars, which are classified according to a number of parameters. One of the main ones is weight. Such an approach is easily explained by the influence of this parameter on all other characteristics.

To better understand how cars are classified by weight, consider the most popular types, they include:

  1. Microcars. The engine of such machines rarely exceeds a volume of one liter. The minimum figure is 0.4 liters. Power of 15-40 horsepower is quite normal. The weight is from 0.5 to 0.8 tons. Such vehicles consume from 5 to 7 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers. Max Speed 100 km/h.
  2. Subcompact cars. The volume of engines of such vehicles can reach two liters, but usually it lies in the range from 1 to 1.5 liters. Power is about 60-70 hp. The body can have both four and five seats. The weight of the car is from 0.8 to 1 ton. At the same time, fuel consumption is 6-8 liters, and the speed is 110-120 km / h.
  3. Cars with a medium displacement. The engine capacity in such machines is from two to three liters. Power is about 80-130 horsepower. Weight 1.2-1.6 tons. Fuel consumption 12-14 liters. The maximum speed indicator is 120-145 km / h.
  4. Cars with a large displacement. The weight of such vehicles reaches 2.5-3 tons. They consume a lot of fuel. On average 18-20 liters per 100 km. Speed ​​from 150 to 240 kilometers. The cabin can easily fit six or even eight people. The power of such machines can reach 300 hp.

Judging by the latest sales in Europe, every year the first two types of cars occupy an increasing sales sector. This trend is easily explained by the desire of modern people to save money and not pollute the environment.

Results

From the foregoing, we can conclude that the weight of modern passenger car is about 1.5 tons. At the same time, every year, thanks to modern materials this number is getting smaller.

All phenomena that occur during the movement of the car, to a very large extent depend on its overall dimensions, weight, shape, position of the center of gravity, location of the body, i.e. from its general structure or, as they say, layout. It is more convenient to get an idea of ​​these general, initial vehicle data when the vehicle is stationary.

Rice. The main dimensions of the car give an initial idea of ​​​​its layout.

Let's look at the car from the side. To draw or draw it, it would be necessary first of all to outline several basic dimensions:

  • vehicle length and height
  • longitudinal distance between the axles of the wheels (the so-called wheelbase or just base)
  • gap between car and road
  • front and rear overhangs, i.e. distances from the axis of the front or rear wheels to, respectively, the front or rear end (buffer) of the car

If you look at the car from the front, rear and top, the main dimensions are the width of the car, the track of the front and rear wheels, that is, the distance between the middles of the tires of one axle.

Dimensions called the extreme big sizes vehicle in length, width and height.

Domestic cars and trucks are different in layout. The more modern the car, the greater part of its total length is occupied by the passenger space or cargo platform, the more these useful areas of the car are moved forward. The ratio of the base of the car and its height to length is getting smaller, and the useful length used for its intended purpose (for passengers, luggage or cargo) is getting larger.

The ratio of the useful length of a passenger car Lk to its total length L1 or the usable platform area truck Sk to its total area S1 is called an indicator of the use of the dimension n (the Greek letter "this" with the indices "dl" - length or "pl" - area):

The larger the index n, the more perfect the layout of the car.

Before you put the car on the scales, you need to determine what weight condition it is in. If all the mechanisms of the car are filled with grease and other liquids (water, brakes, etc.), the car is equipped with a spare wheel and a set of tools, and the tank is filled with fuel, then the weight of such a car is called curb weight or own weight .

If the car is not filled with gasoline, water, oil and other liquids, its weight is called dry. Dry weight determines the amount of metal and other materials in the structure of the car, and is also important in terms of transporting the car (on a railway platform or by crane). Sometimes dry weight is called such weight when the vehicle is also removed spare wheel and tool.

If the car is with a driver, passengers (according to the number of seats in the body) and cargo, its weight is called complete .

When a car is weighed with a load, that is, when the total weight is determined, the body is loaded with sandbags or cast-iron ingots, and the weight of the passenger is assumed to be 75 kg.

Rice. The development of the layout of the passenger car.

Rice. The AMO-3 and GAZ-51A cars have bodies of the same length, but the GAZ-51A cab is shifted forward, so the base is 510 mm shorter than the AMO-3, and the length is 425 mm.

Weight ratio payload Ge to the dead weight of the car G0 is called the specific load capacity of the car ng:

The specific carrying capacity of trucks is close to unity, i.e. the car weighs about the same as it can carry on itself. For passenger cars, this indicator ranges between 0.20 and 0.40, since passengers are accommodated freely in the body, and in small cars (lighter, with a cramped body), the indicator is higher than in large ones.

Since we are considering a car in motion, of the listed weight conditions, only the total weight of the car should be taken into account. After all, a car in running order (without a driver and load) and, moreover, in a state corresponding to “dry weight”, cannot move. But in addition to the total weight, in some cases, they take the weight state of the car, which is conditionally called running, when the driver is on the car, but there are no passengers or cargo. The car can move, but it is not loaded.

For weighing, the car is rolled onto large scales either as a whole or in turn by the front and rear wheels. In the second case, by adding two weighing results, you can get the weight of the car and at the same time find out what part of the weight falls on the front wheels and what on the rear, i.e., what is the distribution of weight on the wheels of this vehicle what is the front and rear axle weight and what is the load on each wheel and tire. All these data are extremely important for evaluating all the qualities of a car: its smoothness, ability to take acceleration and climbs, and develop the highest speed.

Rice. When the number of passengers changes or the platform is filled with cargo, the distribution of weight on the wheels changes.

In trucks, the front wheels account for 25-35% of the total weight, and the rear wheels account for 65-75%. The own weight of trucks is distributed between the axles almost equally: 40-50% on the front wheels and 50-60% on the rear. This shows that the bulk of the payload weight is transferred through the rear wheels.

The requirements for the distribution of weight on the wheels, as we will see further, are very contradictory. To improve the traction qualities, the car's cross-country ability and to facilitate control, it is desirable to load the drive (rear) wheels and unload the guides (front); to increase stability and smoothness, it is advisable to equally distribute the load or some overload of the front wheels. To increase the service life of all tires, their uniform load is necessary, which is obtained with such a distribution of weight along the axles:

  • 50%:50% for cars
  • 33%:67% for trucks (including two tires on the rear wheels)

Rice. Adding the forces from the weight of the individual parts of the machine, we get the force from the total weight applied at the center of gravity.

Especially important is the constancy of the weight distribution over the wheels (not the weight, but the weight distribution!), i.e. the preservation of the percentage of the total weight falling on the front or rear wheels, in all weight states. Unfortunately, most modern cars does not have this quality. It can be achieved if the center of gravity of the load is close to the center of gravity of the unloaded vehicle.

The distribution of weight on the wheels depends on the weight of the mechanisms and the payload and on their location along the length of the car (it is assumed that the car is more or less symmetrical about its longitudinal axis and the load on the left and right wheels is the same. Therefore, the weight distribution on the left and right wheels is not are considering.). The latter is especially significant, since the most important components of the car's weight - engine, body, payload - can be located differently in relation to the fulcrum (i.e., to the front and rear axles) and have different weights. When designing a car, the weight of each vehicle assembly (as well as the weight of the parts of the assembly itself) can be represented as a force directed towards the road surface. You can consider the aggregates in turn, taking them in pairs, and find the resultant for each pair; then take the found resultants in pairs, and so on, until the resultant of all these forces is obtained, equal in magnitude to the weight of the car and applied at a point called the center of gravity.

The article was written based on materials from sites: auto-kruto.ru, orthograf.ru, resalt.ru.

When studying automotive topics, there are a number of terms that define certain parameters of vehicles. Most definitions are introduced and refined by government regulatory agencies and other organizations responsible for the organization traffic. For both cars and freight transport curb weight and gross weight are one of the key technical parameters, which are indicated in the documents by manufacturers.

A car leaving the assembly line of the factory and a car that arrived at a car dealership for sale have a different mass. After completing with spare parts (spare tools and accessories) and refueling technical liquids vehicle weight increases. For domestic vehicles, the concept of curb weight is regulated by GOST R 52389-2005. It includes a lot of:

  • car;
  • standard equipment (hoist, fire extinguisher, spare wheel, first aid kit, standard set of keys and tools);
  • technical fluids, lubricants and a full tank of fuel;
  • driver, whose weight is taken as 75 kg.

In the EU zone, car manufacturers also include the weight of the driver, whose weight is 75 kg, in the curb weight of the car. We can say that the operating weight is the mass of a fully equipped, fueled and ready to travel car with a driver.

What is the total mass of the car

All elements of the car are calculated and manufactured with a certain margin of safety. It is quite clear that exceeding the load of the car leads to a deterioration traction characteristics and braking efficiency, as well as a key impact on safety. Therefore, manufacturing companies indicate the total permitted weight in the documents for the car. It represents the maximum valid parameter and includes a lot:

  • equipped and ready for operation of the machine;
  • driver and passengers by number of seats;
  • transported cargo.

What is the difference between the gross and curb weight of the car

If we compare the full (permitted) and curb weight of the car, then the first parameter is obtained by adding to the second the weight of passengers and the luggage carried. The curb weight (weight without load) of the machine is set based on technical features(make of car, body type and weight, volume fuel tank and cooling systems, materials of manufacture, etc.) and is a given parameter, then the total mass is the limiting indicator. It shows that its excess can lead not only to a decrease performance characteristics, but also to emergency failure individual nodes and machine elements.

When designing their cars, all manufacturers try to minimize the weight of cars, which directly affects their acceleration and economical characteristics. The more weight the vehicle will carry over a certain distance, spending the minimum amount of fuel, the better.

When calculating the total permitted weight, manufacturers are guided by some average data on the weight of passengers, driver and baggage carried on public roads. By the method of providence testing, they set the threshold, up to which the vehicle is able to operate without significant excess fuel consumption and exceeding axial and other loads on the transmission and chassis elements. If a one-time and slight excess of the total permitted weight can be compensated to some extent by the safety margin of the structure, then the constant and excessive loading of the passenger compartment and trunk of the car will definitely lead to a decrease in the operational life of the entire car.

With a simplified calculation, subtracting the curb weight from the total weight, you can find out what is the maximum amount of cargo a car can take on board. All these norms and values ​​​​are indicated in the PTS (vehicle passport) and are duplicated on special tags located in the doorways or under the hood of the car. For example, the value of the operating weight may be needed at a service station when servicing or repairing a machine using a lift that has weight limits. Knowing the weight of the luggage intended for transportation, it will not be difficult to quickly find out whether the value of the permitted (gross) weight will be exceeded, and take measures to prevent the vehicle from being overloaded.

In the automotive industry, there are such terms as: gross and curb weight. These terms are those that are necessarily talked about in the theory of driving schools. But, today, even many drivers with great experience do not remember or do not know about it. The curb weight of the car is the total weight of the car with the necessary equipment, all materials that are needed during the operation of the car, a full tank of fuel, the weight of the driver, but excluding passenger weight and cargo weight.

Gross weight is considered the mass of the car, which is the maximum possible and consists of: the weight of the driver and passengers, the weight of the equipped car, as well as the weight of cargo.

What is the difference between curb weight and gross vehicle weight?

If you understand the differences between these concepts, then the whole point comes down to what exactly can be included and summed up in the general criterion of mass. Compared with the value of the curb weight of the car, in the indicator of its gross weight, the weight of the driver, and the weight of all passengers, as well as the weight of the luggage carried.

Gross weight = vehicle weight + weight of all people in the vehicle + cargo in the luggage compartment.

Curb weight = vehicle weight without additional weights.

Of course, each person's weight is different. The same can be said for luggage. Therefore, drivers use concepts such as "permissible gross vehicle weight." Each car has its own highest resolvable indicator, everything will depend on the manufacturer, the materials from which the car is made, as well as the shape of the car body, etc.

Do not overload the machine. If this is not observed, then during the use of the car, the body, bridge systems, and also other parts that need to be fixed to the suspension of the car will deform. And do not forget that, subject to the full curb weight of the car, fuel will be consumed in large volumes. Also, weight is always taken into account when using a two-post lift.

All of the above tips for motorists are pretty important information, especially if the driver does not have sufficient driving experience behind him. They should not be neglected or ignored. Because sometimes even experienced drivers and chauffeurs commit certain actions that may not seem ridiculous and trifling at first glance, but which can lead to consequences. Therefore, be careful and careful when driving.

A car is a complex system that consists of many nodes. Thanks to their coordinated work, normal movement becomes possible. Every year electronics plays an increasingly important role in this structure.

The on-board network provides control and security. In addition, in modern cars, a variety of sensors and computer systems are responsible for a huge number of processes.

Along with increased safety and comfort, the speed limit increases. Just a hundred years ago, cars could top out at 40 miles per hour. Now they are able reach 100 kilometers in 4 seconds, and this is not the limit.

Modern manufacturers spend a lot of money and time to improve aerodynamic parameters and reduce weight. Unfortunately, motorists often forget about the last parameter. This is not surprising, because first of all, attention is focused on the amount of horsepower, appearance and number of cylinders.

It's just the weight that matters. The less the car weighs, the faster it accelerates to 100 kilometers per hour. Yes, and the upper bar of the maximum speed is raised a lot. In addition, a lighter vehicle is much easier to drive. It is easier to keep on the track and get out of corners. If the balance is done correctly, of course.

How the weight of cars affected the engineering industry

Automobile manufacturers have long recognized the importance of low weight for dynamic performance. As a result, they tried their best to reduce the size of the main nodes. As evidence, we can recall the invention of the V-engine. He allowed to halve the space under the hood of the car.

Attention! Increasingly, car manufacturers are using modern materials with high strength and low weight in the design.

An example is Lykan Hypersport. Its body is made of carbon fiber. Due to which the weight of the car is 1380 kilograms. At the same time, the car accelerates to hundreds in 2.8 seconds.

Table of average weight of popular cars

To understand that modern car manufacturers tend to reduce the weight of their creations, just look at the table below.

Curb weight (kg.)

Chevrolet (Chevrolet)

Cruz

GAZ (Volga)

GAS (cargo)

69A (5 seats)

3962, 452 (loaf)

Patriot

hunter

Nissan

x trail (x-trail)

Qashqai (qashqai)

Focus

Focus 2 (focus 2)

Focus 3 (focus 3)

Escort

Renault

Logan

Duster (duster)

Sandero (sandero)

Opel

mocha (mokka)

Astra (astra)

Mazda

Volkswagen

Tuareg (tuareg)

Passat

Toyota

Camry

Corolla (corolla)

Celica (celica)

Land Cruiser

Skoda

Octavia (octavia)

Fabia (fabia)

Sportage (sportage)

Picanto (picanto)

Modern cars rarely cross the border of 1500 kilograms. Of course, there are exceptions like the same Ford Kuga, but they only confirm the general rule to a greater extent, which says that the less the car weighs, the better for the consumer.

It's not just about better maneuverability and greater speed. A car with a low weight requires significantly less energy to move. As a result, much less fuel is wasted. An important confirmation of this thesis is the ever-growing popularity of parquet SUVs, which hang relatively little and are a fairly economical mode of transport.

If we talk about general indicators, then they range from one ton to 1.5. An interesting trend is the growth of the segment of minicars. The weight of such machines can be less than a thousand kilograms. Leading experts attribute this to the same desire of people to save money. In addition, small cars are much easier to park in the city. Especially when there is a shortage of free parking.

A small digression into history

It is best to watch how the weight of cars changed in dynamism. Let's take the cars of the 50s of the last century. They were real monsters. As an example that well illustrates the general trend, we can recall the Cadillac Eldorado 8.2. Its mass was three tons, and this was far from the limit in those days.


But with the onset of the oil crisis, automakers had to find other ways to reach the hearts of consumers. The weight reduction has helped to significantly reduce fuel consumption. In addition, it had a positive effect on handling.

Automakers of that time managed to achieve weight reduction through the use of materials such as:

  • plastic,
  • carbon fiber,
  • light metals.

Automotive magnates are now investing millions in research related to the search for strong and lightweight materials.

Average vehicle weight by type


There are many types of cars, which are classified according to a number of parameters. One of the main ones is weight. Such an approach is easily explained by the influence of this parameter on all other characteristics.

To better understand how cars are classified by weight, consider the most popular types, they include:

  1. Microcars. The engine of such machines rarely exceeds a volume of one liter. The minimum figure is 0.4 liters. Power of 15-40 horsepower is quite normal. The weight is from 0.5 to 0.8 tons. Such vehicles consume from 5 to 7 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers. The maximum speed is 100 km/h.
  2. Subcompact cars. The volume of engines of such vehicles can reach two liters, but usually it lies in the range from 1 to 1.5 liters. Power is about 60-70 hp. The body can have both four and five seats. Machine weight from 0.8 to 1 ton. At the same time, fuel consumption is 6-8 liters, and the speed is 110-120 km / h.
  3. Cars with a medium displacement. The engine capacity in such machines is from two to three liters. Power is about 80-130 horsepower. Weight 1.2-1.6 tons. Fuel consumption 12-14 liters. The maximum speed indicator is 120-145 km / h.
  4. Cars with a large displacement. The weight of such vehicles reaches 2.5-3 tons. They consume a lot of fuel. On average 18-20 liters per 100 km. Speed ​​from 150 to 240 kilometers. The cabin can easily fit six or even eight people. The power of such machines can reach 300 hp.

Judging by the latest sales in Europe, every year the first two types of cars occupy an increasing sales sector. This trend is easily explained by the desire of modern people to save money and not pollute the environment.

Results

From the foregoing, we can conclude that the weight of a modern passenger car is about 1.5 tons. At the same time, every year, thanks to modern materials, this figure is getting smaller.

All phenomena that occur during the movement of the car, to a very large extent depend on its overall dimensions, weight, shape, position of the center of gravity, location of the body, i.e. from its general structure or, as they say, layout. It is more convenient to get an idea of ​​these general, initial vehicle data when the vehicle is stationary.

Rice. The main dimensions of the car give an initial idea of ​​​​its layout.

Let's look at the car from the side. To draw or draw it, it would be necessary first of all to outline several basic dimensions:

  • vehicle length and height
  • the longitudinal distance between the axles of the wheels (the so-called wheelbase or just the base)
  • gap between car and road
  • front and rear overhangs, i.e., the distance from the axle of the front or rear wheels to, respectively, the front or rear end (buffer) of the car

If you look at the car from the front, rear and top, the main dimensions are the width of the car, the track of the front and rear wheels, that is, the distance between the middles of the tires of one axle.

Dimensions call the extreme, largest dimensions of the car in length, width and height.

Domestic cars and trucks are different in layout. The more modern the car, the greater part of its total length is occupied by the passenger space or cargo platform, the more these useful areas of the car are moved forward. The ratio of the base of the car and its height to length is getting smaller, and the useful length used for its intended purpose (for passengers, luggage or cargo) is getting larger.

The ratio of the useful length of a passenger car Lk to its total length L1 or the useful area of ​​a truck platform Sk to its total area S1 is called the indicator of the use of the dimension n (the Greek letter “this” with the indices “dl” - length or “pl” - area):

ndl \u003d Lk / L1
npl \u003d Sk / S1

The larger the index n, the more perfect the layout of the car.

Before you put the car on the scales, you need to determine what weight condition it is in. If all the mechanisms of the car are filled with grease and other liquids (water, brakes, etc.), the car is equipped with a spare wheel and a set of tools, and the tank is filled with fuel, then the weight of such a car is called curb weight or own weight.

If the car is not filled with gasoline, water, oil and other liquids, its weight is called dry. Dry weight determines the amount of metal and other materials in the structure of the car, and is also important in terms of transporting the car (on a railway platform or by crane). Dry weight is sometimes referred to as the weight when the spare wheel and tools have also been removed from the vehicle.

If the car is with a driver, passengers (according to the number of seats in the body) and cargo, its weight is called complete.

When a car is weighed with a load, that is, when the total weight is determined, the body is loaded with sandbags or cast-iron ingots, and the weight of the passenger is assumed to be 75 kg.

Rice. The development of the layout of the passenger car.


Rice. The AMO-3 and GAZ-51A cars have bodies of the same length, but the GAZ-51A cab is shifted forward, so the base is 510 mm shorter than the AMO-3, and the length is 425 mm.

The ratio of the payload weight Ge to the dead weight of the car G0 is called the specific load capacity of the car ng:

The requirements for the distribution of weight on the wheels, as we will see further, are very contradictory. To improve the traction qualities, the car's cross-country ability and to facilitate control, it is desirable to load the drive (rear) wheels and unload the guides (front); to increase stability and smoothness, it is advisable to equally distribute the load or some overload of the front wheels. To increase the service life of all tires, their uniform load is necessary, which is obtained with such a distribution of weight along the axles:

  • 50%:50% for cars
  • 33%:67% for trucks (including two tires on the rear wheels)

Rice. Adding the forces from the weight of the individual parts of the machine, we get the force from the total weight applied at the center of gravity.

Especially important is the constancy of the weight distribution over the wheels (not the weight, but the weight distribution!), i.e. the preservation of the percentage of the total weight falling on the front or rear wheels, in all weight states. Unfortunately, most modern cars do not have this quality. It can be achieved if the center of gravity of the load is close to the center of gravity of the unloaded vehicle.

The distribution of weight on the wheels depends on the weight of the mechanisms and the payload and on their location along the length of the car (it is assumed that the car is more or less symmetrical about its longitudinal axis and the load on the left and right wheels is the same. Therefore, the weight distribution on the left and right wheels is not are considering.). The latter is especially significant, since the most important components of the car's weight - engine, body, payload - can be located differently in relation to the fulcrum (i.e., to the front and rear axles) and have different weights. When designing a car, the weight of each vehicle assembly (as well as the weight of the parts of the assembly itself) can be represented as a force directed towards the road surface. You can consider the aggregates in turn, taking them in pairs, and find the resultant for each pair; then take the found resultants in pairs, and so on, until the resultant of all these forces is obtained, equal in magnitude to the weight of the car and applied at a point called the center of gravity.

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