What is the advantage of this mid-lift configuration on Konrad’s tractor unit?

Explanation: • When lightly laden it will lift and decrease weight over the drive axle: No, when lifted, the axle will not support its own weight and therefore that weight will be transferred to the drive axle thereby increasing the weight on that axle.
• It makes the vehicle lighter than a two axle unit and it can therefore carry more payload: No, quite the reverse, the extra axle will mean more weight and therefore reduced payload for a 5 axle combination.
• It is easier to service that axle when it is lifted: No.
• When lightly laden it will lift and reduce drag therefore saving fuel: Yes, this is one of the major advantages of this configuration.

Category: CPC Case Studies: Technical Matters