How to Calculate Vehicle Turning Radius?
2 Answers
Vehicle turning radius is the distance from the turning center to the contact point between the outer front steering wheel and the ground. Below is a detailed introduction to vehicle turning radius: 1. Turning radius: The minimum turning radius refers to the trajectory radius rolled by the center plane of the outer steering wheel on the supporting surface when the steering wheel is turned to its limit position and the vehicle turns, moving forward at the lowest stable speed. If the direction is turned left or right, the vehicle will perform circular motion on a specific circumference, and the radius of this circle is the vehicle's turning radius. 2. Standard radius: Generally, the turning radius is about 12 meters.
Calculating the turning radius is quite simple, and I often use just a tape measure when repairing cars. Measure the distance from the inner wheel to the turning center—the method involves dividing the wheelbase by the sine of the steering angle and then dividing by two. The formula is: radius equals wheelbase divided by twice the sine of the steering angle. The steering angle can be estimated from the maximum steering wheel angle, typically between 30 to 40 degrees for regular vehicles. Smaller cars have a tighter turning radius due to their narrower wheelbase, making them more maneuverable in tight streets and alleys. A smaller turning radius means better agility, especially when parallel parking. Several factors affect it: low tire pressure increases the radius, and poor suspension design can lead to understeer. I recommend regular checks of the steering system for safety. In practical driving, vehicles with a turning radius under six meters are highly convenient in parking lots.
