AfMA Fleetdrive Issue 16 | Page 17

FLEETDRIVE 5. Wheel Alignment: This is the correct angle of a vehicles tyres to maximise tyre contact under normal driving conditions. Increased weight causing changes in suspension travel and geometry, which affects the angle of the wheel resulting in the reduction of tyre contact with the road and increased tyre wear. Incorrect Wheel Alignment and Tyre Contact affects all facets of vehicle performance, most importantly safety through diminished steering responsiveness and braking efficiency. 6. Legal Compliance: Every vehicle must operate within the weight’s tolerance specified by the original manufacturer. Failure to adhere to this deems the vehicle unroadworthy. And has other potential consequences including OH+S and insurance compliance issues. You can hear more about the effects of additional weight on a vehicle at our safety field day at Sandown Racecourse on May 22 as a feature of the 2019 Australasian Fleet Conference & Exhibition, proudly sponsored by Pedders. This safety field day is opened to paid delegates and special guests of AfMA. The day will also incorporate active safety demonstrations and provide an opportunity to drive and experience a range of electric vehicles (passenger and commercial). ISSUE 16 2019 / WWW.AFMA.NET.AU 17