How Much Weight Can a Car Carry?

[VonAngelo]

Generally, the load capacity of a family car ranges from 375 to 500KG. There is no way to calculate it in detail, and it can only be based on the load capacity marked on the nameplate hung when the car leaves the factory. The national standard is 375 kilograms, which means that the load capacity of the produced car cannot exceed 375 kilograms. The following are the vehicle load standards and the damage caused by overloading to the car: Vehicle Load Standards: One is the vehicle load standard based on traffic road administration, where a two-axle vehicle should not exceed 20 tons, a front four rear four 24 tons, and a front four rear eight 34 tons. Another is the vehicle load standard in the eyes of traffic police, which is based on the driving license, that is, the tonnage specified on the factory certificate. Damage Caused by Overloading to the Car: Reduces braking performance and increases the non-safe zone distance. There are many factors that affect the braking distance of a car, among which the change of car load will directly affect the length of the braking distance. Overloaded cars have a longer braking distance due to increased inertia. The extension of the non-safe zone distance can easily lead to traffic accidents.

[ColemanDella]

Vehicle Load Capacity: I've driven many cars and noticed significant differences. For ordinary family sedans like the Toyota Corolla, the official rated load capacity is typically around 300 to 500 kilograms, roughly equivalent to three or four adults plus luggage. However, in practice, when carrying heavy items such as furniture during a move, the car noticeably sags, the suspension is under greater stress, and the handling feels unstable. SUVs like the Honda CR-V have a stronger load capacity, generally between 600 to 800 kilograms, with a spacious trunk that can accommodate more luggage. The key is to avoid overloading. I once accidentally overloaded my car, which led to faster tire wear and longer braking distances—quite dangerous. It's best to check the user manual or the vehicle's nameplate, which specifies the maximum allowable load. Additionally, road conditions also play a role; driving on bumpy roads with a heavy load can easily damage the chassis. Long-term overloading can cause suspension deformation, leading to costly repairs. In summary, maintaining a reasonable load ensures safe driving.

[Rosemary]

From the perspective of vehicle structure, load capacity primarily depends on the suspension and tires. For ordinary cars, the suspension is designed to support a certain weight. If overloaded, the springs can be compressed, leading to noticeable bumpiness while driving and a higher risk of rollover, especially during turns. The tire load index is crucial—for example, a common index of 91 indicates each tire can bear 615 kg. Under standard configurations, sedans typically handle up to 500 kg, while SUVs can manage slightly more. Overloading can cause tires to overheat and burst, as well as accelerate suspension system wear. I believe this is an important consideration when choosing a car, especially for those planning to carry cargo. Additionally, turning on the air conditioning or driving uphill with a full load increases engine strain and significantly reduces fuel efficiency. Maintaining proper tire pressure can also optimize load performance. Regularly checking the maximum weight data on the vehicle's placard is advisable.

[MicahDella]

Don't overlook safety with load limits. Having driven for years, I know overloading is illegal and dangerous - traffic police will impose fines and deduct points if caught. Sedans typically have a load limit of 300-500kg; exceeding this more than doubles braking distance, increasing rear-end collision risks. When loading, distribute weight evenly and secure items to prevent shifting. Before each trip, estimate total weight: assume 75kg per passenger and 20kg for each light luggage piece. Check vehicle stance - if rear wheels are too close to fenders, it's overloaded. Monitor handling changes while driving; stop immediately if abnormal vibrations occur. Most importantly, always obey traffic regulations.