Will the center of gravity position of a vehicle change when it is overloaded?
2 Answers
When a vehicle is overloaded, the position of its center of gravity will change. This is because the increased inertia due to overloading causes the vehicle's center of gravity to tilt, making it difficult to control the direction, which is highly dangerous. Overloading alters the load distribution and significantly reduces braking efficiency. In emergency situations, this can easily lead to rollovers, side flips, or delayed braking, resulting in accidents. These incidents can happen in the blink of an eye, so drivers should never take chances. Instead of worrying about vehicle wear and tear, always remember that 'safety comes first.'
When a vehicle is overloaded, its center of gravity will definitely change. Having driven trucks for many years, I know that if cargo is piled on the roof or passengers are crowded in the back seats, the center of gravity will rise or shift backward. The body sways noticeably when cornering, becoming as unstable as walking on stilts. Last year, when I was making a long-distance delivery with a slight overload, the vehicle bounced violently, tire grip decreased, and the braking distance increased. Such changes are particularly dangerous, especially on slippery roads in rainy weather. If you encounter a sharp turn, the vehicle is prone to rollover. Overloading not only affects handling but also wears out the suspension system. I recommend distributing the load reasonably and not trying to save trouble by overloading—safety should always come first.
