Hjulbaser

Hjulbaser, or wheelbase, is the distance between the centers of the front and rear wheels measured along the vehicle's longitudinal axis. It is a core dimension of a vehicle's platform and is distinct from overall length and track width. The wheelbase influences interior space, weight distribution, and the vehicle's dynamic characteristics.

Longer wheelbases tend to improve high-speed stability and ride comfort by reducing pitch and the transmission of road irregularities to the cabin. Shorter wheelbases generally enhance agility and steering responsiveness but can make the ride feel harsher and increase the tendency to wheel hop on rough surfaces. The wheelbase also interacts with weight transfer during braking and acceleration, affecting handling behavior in cornering and uneven surfaces.

Manufacturers use wheelbase as a design lever to balance interior space, payload, and exterior proportions. In general, compact cars have shorter wheelbases, while mid- and full-size sedans, SUVs, and pickups use longer ones to accommodate cabins and cargo. Wheelbase interacts with track width and overall length to determine stability, cornering behavior, and interior legroom. Across generations, adjustments to a model's wheelbase reflect shifts in market demands and regulatory constraints.

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