What Does Vehicle Class Mean?
2 Answers
Vehicle class was originally a classification system developed by Volkswagen in Germany to categorize its wide range of vehicles. Volkswagen established this set of standards for its platform strategy, and although these standards are not authoritative, they have since been widely adopted in the automotive industry. Criteria for Classification: From the initial classification of vehicles in Germany, vehicle classes are primarily determined based on factors such as body size, engine displacement, weight, and wheelbase. Most vehicles are classified according to body size and wheelbase. Based on these criteria, Volkswagen categorized its vehicle platforms into six classes: A00, A0, A, B, C, and D, encompassing all vehicle types. Detailed Introduction to Classes: Among these, A00 class refers to microcars, A0 class to small cars, A class to compact cars, B class to mid-size cars, C class to full-size cars, and D class to large cars. Following the alphabetical order, the further the letter, the longer the wheelbase, the larger the engine displacement, the greater the weight, and the higher the level of luxury. With this classification, Volkswagen implemented a comprehensive grading system for its vehicles in its platform strategy.
I think vehicle classes are just the automakers' way of categorizing car sizes, similar to how clothes come in S, M, and L sizes. A-segment cars are like compact sedans - they offer enough interior space but aren't overly spacious. B-segment vehicles are noticeably larger, with rear seats comfortable enough to cross your legs. C-segment mid-to-large size cars are even more luxurious. Though nowadays many cars keep getting bigger - what used to be considered B-segment dimensions might now approach C-segment standards. Checking vehicle class is quite useful when car shopping, as it directly relates to practical concerns like how many suitcases the trunk can hold or whether three adult men would feel cramped in the back seat.
