Achsenzahl

Achsenzahl, or the number of axles, is the count of axles on a vehicle or piece of machinery. It is a standard specification used in vehicle registration, load planning, and road use regulation. Each axle carries part of the vehicle's weight, and the distribution across axles influences stability, suspension, and wear, as well as allowed total weight and per-axle loads.

In automotive and transport contexts, typical values range from two axles in passenger cars and light trailers to three or more in heavy trucks, articulated lorries, and specialized equipment. A hauler with a rigid truck often has two or three axles; articulated lorries commonly have three or more, including the tractor and trailer assemblies. Some trailers add more axles to increase load capacity or adapt to regulatory requirements.

Regulatory relevance: The Achsenzahl affects permissible total weight (gross vehicle weight) and per-axle load limits, as well as toll schemes in some jurisdictions, vehicle classification, and inspection regimes. More axles may permit higher total weight but also introduce longer turning radius and potential maneuvering challenges.

Measurement and terminology: In German-speaking contexts, Achsenzahl is used alongside terms like Achslast (axle load) and Gesamtgewicht (gross weight). It is also a factor in route planning, road wear estimation, and insurance classification.