In most sedans, the fuel tank is generally positioned towards the middle-rear section of the vehicle. However, depending on the car model, some fuel tanks are located on the right side while others are on the left. This is true for the majority of vehicles. German and Japanese car manufacturers consider weight distribution when designing vehicles. Since the engine and steering system at the front are relatively heavy, the fuel tank is usually placed under the rear seats. Some cars have the fuel tank in the middle to expand the rear cargo space. The fuel tank placement varies for weight balance: Manufacturers like German and Japanese brands, which prioritize technical excellence, pay special attention to weight distribution. The front of the car, housing the engine and steering system, is already heavy, so the fuel tank is typically positioned under the rear seats. Combined with the driver's weight, this diagonal placement helps maintain the vehicle's balance. Driving direction influences tank placement: The fuel tank's position is also designed for refueling convenience. For example, in right-hand traffic countries like many in Europe, the fuel tank is placed on the right side. Safety considerations for refueling: The fuel tank's location must account not only for convenience but also safety. In the past, when cars used portable fuel cans, having the fuel filler on the same side as the driver could lead to collisions during refueling. Therefore, placing the filler on the opposite side of the driver—toward the roadside—is safer. Actual fuel tank capacity: According to national regulations, the maximum nominal capacity of a car's fuel tank cannot exceed 95% of its actual capacity. Determining the fuel tank's location: The fuel gauge often has an arrow indicator; the direction of this arrow shows which side the fuel filler is on. In China, where driving is on the right side with the driver seated on the left, the fuel tank is usually located at the right rear.
