Car height

Vehicle height is one of the standardised vehicle data, the so-called basic vehicle dimensions, which are defined by the international standard ISO 612 of 1978.

Definition:

The height of a car is the vertical distance between the ground and the highest point on the vehicle. The height of the car is measured on an unladen vehicle with a kerb weight. The height of the car includes, for example, beacons or longitudinal roof racks. A flexible antenna is not normally included in the vehicle height.

car height

The height of the vehicle and its effect on the driving characteristics:

A taller car usually results in a higher centre of gravity and a larger frontal area of the body. A higher centre of gravity makes the vehicle more susceptible to overturning, not only when cornering but also in the event of a collision with another vehicle. A larger frontal area, in turn, worsens the aerodynamics of the vehicle and consequently increases fuel consumption, thereby increasing exhaust emissions.

On the other hand, the higher structure of the vehicle allows for a higher seating position, which makes it easier to get in and out of the vehicle. The higher seated crew also has a greater sense of security.

A higher seated driver can easily take on the impression of greater visibility of the road situation. But new studies warn that the opposite is often true. In some lavish vehicles, especially SUVs, the driver has a much poorer view of the situation in the immediate vicinity of the car than he or she thinks. Not to mention that tall vehicles logically obstruct the view of other drivers and other road users.