What does the minimum ground clearance of a car mean?
2 Answers
The minimum ground clearance of a car refers to the distance between the lowest point of the car (excluding the wheels) and the supporting surface when the car is fully loaded and stationary. It is used to characterize the car's ability to pass over obstacles such as stones and stumps without collision, and it is one of the geometric parameters of the car's passability. The following are the effects of the minimum ground clearance on driving: 1. The larger the minimum ground clearance, the stronger the vehicle's ability to pass over obstacles or uneven ground, but the higher the center of gravity, which reduces stability; 2. The smaller the minimum ground clearance, the weaker the vehicle's ability to pass over obstacles or uneven ground, but the lower the center of gravity, which can increase stability.
The minimum ground clearance of a car, simply put, is the vertical distance from the lowest point of the chassis to the ground. When choosing a car, I always think this parameter is quite important, especially when driving in the city. For example, when going over steep speed bumps or potholes, if the clearance is small, like with my sedan, the chassis often scrapes, making a buzzing sound, and it can even damage the oil pan or exhaust pipe, costing hundreds of dollars to repair each time. Vehicles with larger clearance, like SUVs, pass through easily and offer a much more comfortable ride. This directly affects the driving experience and safety. A friend of mine has an old car with very low clearance—when it rains heavily and the water is deep, water gets in, making the interior damp and smelly. Before buying a new car, it’s best to check this data and pay attention during the test drive to avoid headaches later. In short, it affects daily drivability, durability, and convenience—don’t underestimate this little bit of height.
