Wheelbase
The wheelbase is the distance between the centres of the front and rear wheels.
What is Wheelbase?
A long wheelbase gives more interior space and a calmer ride. A short wheelbase makes the car more agile and gives a smaller turning circle. It is listed in the technical data of every car. The wheelbase also influences stability at high speed and how the weight is distributed between the axles. Electric car platforms often have long wheelbases to fit large battery packs between the axles, which gives a flat floor and more cabin space for the car's length.
How it works
The longer the wheelbase, the less the body pitches over bumps.
Why it matters for your car
Long-wheelbase versions of some models offer more rear legroom. Wheelbase affects the ability to cross crests off-road (breakover angle).
Other terms
- ABS Warning Light
- Charge-sustaining Mode (Hybrid Mode)
- Crossplane Crankshaft
- Dry Sump Lubrication
- Expansion Valve (Orifice Tube)
- Fuel Level Sensor
- Heat Shield
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Intake Air Temperature Sensor
- Main Beam (High Beam, Full Beam)
- OBD Port (Diagnostic Connector)
- Passenger Safety Cell
- Piezo Injector
- Reversing Light (Backup Light)
- Sunroof
- Toll Vignette
- Towing An Electric Car
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Trafficators (Semaphore Indicators)
- Tyre Pressure Gauge