THE GVM CONUNDRUM When looking at service vehicle choices, there’s more to consider than gross vehicle mass alone.
T
he gross vehicle mass of the
Correct chassis selection will ensure the long
the vehicle as a cab chassis with no driver,
average light utility has increased
life of the vehicle, sensible fuel economy
passengers, payload or truck body. The KM
substantially over the last 10 or
and good handling. To assist in payload
of utilities varies from model to model.
15 years. For instance, a 1998
calculation, we’ve provided the following
Toyota Hilux had a GVM of
guide on common terminology, along with
Payload (P)
2730 kg, versus 2835 kg in the
some calculation examples.
Payload is the mass, or weight, of cargo/
2014 offering. Without more information,
goods/tools and people that the vehicle is
an unsuspecting customer may think that
Gross vehicle mass (GVM)
equates to a higher payload capability, but
GVM is measured in kilograms and dis-
this is far from the truth. In reality, the ’98
played on the vehicle compliance plate
Occupants
Hilux featured a 1341 kg payload and the
(usually found under the bonnet on the
Every person in a light truck is considered
later model just 1155 kg. There’s obviously
firewall) as well as vehicle specification
an occupant and is assumed to weigh 75
more to consider than GVM alone, so let’s
sheets. The GVM is the maximum per-
kg. The total number of occupants for any
break it down.
missable weight of a fully loaded vehicle
truck is shown on the vehicle compliance
including the vehicle itself, the driver and
Calculating payload
plate and usually on the vehicle specifica-
passengers, accessories, options and any
tion sheet.
In order to correctly establish utility re-
type of truck body.
Vehicle compliance plate (VCP)
quirements prior to initial purchase, buyers
16
permitted to carry.
should calculate payload to ensure ultimate
Kerb mass (KM)
The VCP is an aluminium plate affixed to the
operation of the vehicle within safe limits.
KM is the mass, or weight, in kilograms of
firewall that shows the make and model of
FSB AUGUST 2015
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