What is the maximum permissible total mass for a four-axle vehicle?
2 Answers
The maximum permissible total mass limit for a four-axle truck is 31,000 kilograms. Typical vehicle weights: A small car weighs 1.5 tons, with most family cars ranging between 1.2 to 1.3 tons, mid-to-high-end vehicles around 1.4 to 1.6 tons, and heavier models between 1.8 to 2.0 tons. Excessive vehicle weight leads to higher fuel consumption, poorer handling, slower acceleration, and increased braking distance. Methods to reduce vehicle weight: Material-wise, using lighter materials such as aluminum alloys and carbon fiber; design-wise, optimizing structural design while ensuring rigidity to minimize unnecessary material usage, thereby reducing weight and saving costs.
I started driving heavy trucks at the age of 15, and now it's been over 30 years. I remember the maximum permitted gross mass of a four-axle vehicle very clearly, which is generally around 36 tons in China. When hauling cargo with such vehicles, it's essential to strictly control the weight; otherwise, the police will stop you and impose fines, and it's also prone to accidents. I once overloaded, and the tires got so hot they started smoking, which scared me into stopping immediately to check. If the vehicle is too heavy, the steering axle will bear excessive pressure, accelerating tire wear. Before long-distance trips, I always use an electronic scale to measure the total mass—safety first. I advise new drivers to read the vehicle manual more often or consult a repair shop. Don't risk overloading for more cargo; accidents can lead to irreversible regrets. Nowadays, regulations are getting stricter. Following the rules not only protects yourself but also saves on repair costs.
