Freight

A review of the existing descriptions, common terminology, vehicle classification schemes and designation notation used throughout the world was conducted, and areas of potential confusion were identified. A nomenclature system was developed that provides a shorthand means for designating and coding vehicle configurations. The proposed system is primarily based on that used by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). The major enhancements are the use of the number of axles in each axle group rather than in each vehicle unit, and precise description of the number and type of articulation points. The proposed nomenclature system is fully described in the paper, which includes an interesting and comprehensive range of examples taken from different countries. The paper is intended to promote discussion with a view to ultimately adopting an agreed heavy vehicle nomenclature system worldwide.