Research Shows Impact Of Carrying a Load on Van Braking Distances
According to recent tests by New tests by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, van braking distances can increase by up to 36% at 30mph when the vehicle has a 500Kg payload.
Coming on the back of a recent survey by VW that revealed almost half of van drivers are unaware that heavy loads impact braking distances, there is clearly a need for greater awareness.
Carl zu Dohna, director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said:
“Braking distances in the Highway Code are based on an advised standard and don’t take into account the loads that many van drivers carry. Our research highlights an important safety message that van drivers could really benefit from.
“Whether they’re plumbers, landscape gardeners or construction workers, our customers regularly carry half a tonne of equipment and need to be aware they need to adjust their driving style to avoid having a costly, and potentially serious, accident.”
So What Does This Mean In Real Terms?
VW’s survey revealed that on average, most vans carried upto half a tonne of equipment, which can increase braking distances by up to 36%. This is equal to an extra five metres to stop at 60mph.
Using the MIRA Proving Grounds in Nuneaton, VW conducted a series of brake tests the on its own range of vans, with the Caddy, Transporter and Crafter carrying varying weights from empty to 500kg at both 30mph and 60mph.
The results revealed that 30mph braking distances increased by an average of 33% when vans had half a tonne of ballast on board – equal to an extra two metres travelled.
At 60mph, the distance travelled is inevitably more dangerous, as braking distances increased by an average of 19%, or five metres.
Reducing the Risks For Your Drivers
Supporting the research, Matthew Avery, director of research at Thatcham Research, said:
“We would also encourage van drivers to ensure that loads are well-secured, as movement of heavy items in the rear can also affect stability and stopping distance.”
As the only manufacturer to offer Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) across its range as standard, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles have a commercial interest in the research of course. Studies suggest that if the technology was fitted to all commercial vehicles in the UK, it has the potential to stop almost 2,500 crashes per year.
If you run a fleet of vans though, it is certainly worth reiterating this message to your drivers and helping to make journeys safer for your drivers and other road-users. For more information about the AEB vans from VW or any of our available vans, then please feel free to call us on 07971 20865102.