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In the world of commercial vehicles, axle configurations are a frequently discussed topic. Choosing the right configuration is a crucial step when searching for a suitable vehicle. The axle configuration depends on your transport needs, with different configurations required for varying working conditions. Here, we explain exactly what this entails.
Axle configurations are found in trucks and rigid vehicles (not in trailers, as these are towed by trucks and rigid vehicles). The axle configuration determines how many axles are driven, depending on the purpose of the vehicle. They are read as follows: 4x2 means there are four wheels, two of which are driven. In addition to this configuration, there are other options, which we divide into configurations for trucks and rigid vehicles.
Axle configurations involve two types of axles: the steer axle and the driven axle. A steer axle is an axle with wheels that can turn to steer the vehicle. It is primarily used to guide the vehicle and maintain control over its direction. The steer axle is usually the front axle of a vehicle. A driven axle, on the other hand, is powered directly by the engine, providing force to the wheels to move the vehicle forward or backward. This axle can be located in various positions on the vehicle.
Trucks can have up to 10 wheels. For example, an 8x4 axle configuration means eight wheels, four axles, two of which are driven. Other configurations include 6x2, with three axles and one driven axle; 6x2/4, with three axles, one driven and two steered (*4); 6x4, with two driven axles; and 6x6, where all three axles are driven.
Rigid vehicles can have up to 12 wheels, allowing for a wider range of configurations. Up to the 6x6 configuration, they are similar to trucks. With eight wheels, options include 8x2, 8x2/4, 8x2/6 (four axles, one driven and three steered), 8x4, 8x4/4, 8x6, and 8x8. For ten wheels, configurations include 10x4, 10x4/6, 10x6/6, and 10x8/6.
De axle configurations are chosen based on how you intend to use the vehicle. Mike Smulders (Product Manager at BAS World): "When purchasing a truck, it is crucial to select the correct configuration so that the truck fully matches the tasks it needs to perform." A single axle is often chosen for road transport. Multiple axles are commonly used for construction vehicles or distribution work. Mike Smulders (Product Manager at BAS World): "Especially for construction and building vehicles, it is important that the truck is equipped with multiple driven axles, possibly with axle reduction, to perform optimally even under tough conditions." Do you have a construction vehicle that occasionally drives off-road? Then, for example, a 6x6 configuration is a good option. Besides the type of use, the maximum weight you want to transport also influences the number of axles you choose.
Below, we highlight three configurations: 4x2, 4x4, and 6x2.
The 4x2 axle configuration is the most common. It is primarily used for long-distance journeys and vehicles that frequently travel on highways. Here, the driven axles are always the rear axles. At BAS World, we offer various models with a 4x2 configuration for both trucks and rigid vehicles.
The 4x4 configuration is mainly used in the construction sector and for distribution work. With multiple driven axles, it provides greater grip, and the truck sits higher on the wheels. At BAS World, we offer a variety of 4x4 configurations from renowned brands like Volvo, Scania, and MAN.
For the 6x2 configuration, the number of driven axles depends on the weight being transported. The more weight you want to carry, the more driven axles you need. The 6x2 configuration comes in two variants: one with a steered axle and one with a rigid rear axle. At BAS World, we provide a wide selection of truck and rigid vehicle models with 6x2 configurations.
As mentioned above, there are many more types of drive systems available. Before starting your search for the right truck or rigid vehicle, it’s important to determine a few things in advance. For example, you need to know the type of terrain you will mostly be transporting on and the maximum weight you plan to carry. With this information, you can choose the ideal axle configuration and make the right decision.