Hjulavstand

Hjulavstand refers to the distance between the center of the front axle and the center of the rear axle of a vehicle. It is a critical measurement that significantly impacts a vehicle's handling characteristics, stability, and maneuverability. A longer wheelbase generally contributes to a smoother ride and better stability at higher speeds, as the vehicle is less prone to pitching and rolling. Conversely, a shorter wheelbase results in greater agility and a tighter turning radius, making the vehicle more maneuverable in confined spaces.

The wheelbase is measured in units of length, such as meters or inches. It is an important specification for vehicle designers, influencing the vehicle's overall dimensions, interior space, and weight distribution. For example, a longer wheelbase can allow for more legroom in the passenger cabin. In racing, wheelbase is often adjusted to fine-tune the car's dynamic behavior on different tracks.

Different types of vehicles have vastly different wheelbases. Passenger cars typically have moderate wheelbases, balancing comfort and practicality. Larger vehicles like trucks and buses often have significantly longer wheelbases to accommodate their size and weight, while smaller vehicles such as go-karts or some microcars have very short wheelbases for extreme maneuverability. The relationship between wheelbase and track width (the distance between the centers of the wheels on the same axle) also plays a role in a vehicle's stability and cornering ability.