The object of the investigation was to develop criteria suitable for regulations on the dynamic stability of heavy vehicle combinations. Demands for type approval are proposed. A double lane change manoeuvre was chosen as critical for evaluating the dynamic behaviour. The investigation included digital computer simulations and full scale field tests. The dynamic behaviour of the tractor + semitrailer + full trailer combination, is found to be speed dependent and inferior to comparable truck + full trailer and tractor + semitrailer combinations.
Abstract