What Are the Criteria for Vehicle Classification?
3 Answers
Vehicle classification can be divided into six levels: A00, A0, A, B, C, and D. The classification is primarily based on parameters such as wheelbase, engine displacement, and weight. The further the letter is in the alphabet, the longer the wheelbase, and the larger the displacement and weight of the vehicle in that category. Below are the vehicle classifications: A00 level: The wheelbase should be between 2 meters and 2.3 meters, with an engine displacement of less than 1 liter. A0 level: The wheelbase ranges from 2.3 meters to 2.5 meters, with a displacement of 1 to 1.5 liters. A and B levels: The wheelbase ranges approximately from 2.5 meters to 2.7 meters, with a displacement of about 1.5 to 2.0 liters. Mid-range passenger vehicles in the B level have a wheelbase of about 2.7 meters to 2.9 meters, with a displacement ranging from 1.8 liters to 2.5 liters. High-end passenger vehicles in the C level have a wheelbase of about 2.8 meters to 3.0 meters, with an engine displacement of 2.3 to 3.0 liters.
I've been studying car classifications for a while and find it quite fascinating. Vehicle classes are mainly determined by body size and wheelbase. For example, the A00 class refers to microcars with wheelbases just over 2 meters, like the Wuling Hongguang MINIEV. A-segment cars typically have wheelbases between 2.5 to 2.7 meters - common models like the Corolla and Lavida are classic compact cars. When it comes to B-segment vehicles such as the Accord and Camry, their wheelbases exceed 2.8 meters, offering noticeably more spacious interiors. Actually, factors like displacement and equipment also influence classification. C-segment cars often feature engines above 2.0T, with models like the Audi A6 equipped with premium features such as air suspension. The current trend shows new energy vehicles redefining classifications - for instance, the Tesla Model 3 has B-segment dimensions but delivers performance comparable to traditional C-segment cars.
When discussing vehicle classification, I believe there are three main aspects to consider: size positioning, price range, and brand premium. Entry-level compact cars like the Fit, with a length under 4 meters, offer affordable pricing; midsize SUVs such as the Highlander, exceeding 4.8 meters in length, serve as primary family vehicles. Luxury car classifications are even more distinct—the Mercedes C-Class and S-Class differ by two tiers. Interestingly, new energy vehicles are breaking traditional rules. For instance, the NIO ET5, with a 2.88-meter wheelbase, is classified as a B-segment car, yet its intelligent features surpass many C-segment models. In reality, consumers are increasingly disregarding official classifications, focusing more on actual interior space and tech features, as wheelbase numbers are far less tangible than the in-car experience.
