Why did Brian specify a 3-axle unit when purchasing the vehicle?

Explanation: • It would give more traction when running unladen: No, when unladen, the middle axle of this particular configuration would lift off the ground and that axle would not, in any case, be a driven axle.
• It would give more traction when running laden: No, the extra axle would probably not be a driven axle and would, if anything, reduce traction when laden as it would be carrying a proportion of the weight away from the drive axle.
• It is cheaper to run than the 2-axle equivalent: No, it would almost certainly be more expensive to run as it has extra brakes, wheels and tyres that need to be serviced and replaced.
• It would allow him to operate at 44 tonnes gross train weight with the appropriate semi-trailer: Yes, with an articulated vehicle combination, it is only a THREE axle tractor unit used with a THREE axle semi-trailer that can be used at the maximum gross train weight of 44 tonnes.

Category: CPC Case Studies: Technical Matters