RV FEATURE
Kerb Mass varies between various models of the same vehicle . It will not include the weight of any accessories fitted to the vehicle , such as bull bars or even those accessories fitted for the purposes of towing , such as a tow bar .
Depending on your tow vehicle , all these accessories could add 100kgs or more to the Kerb Mass .
GROSS VEHICLE MASS
The Gross Vehicle Mass ( GVM ) of a tow vehicle is defined by the ADRs as the maximum laden mass of a motor vehicle as specified by the manufacturer . The GVM should be stated on the compliance plate . It can also be obtained from the vehicle manufacturer ' s website . Subtracting the Kerb Mass from the GVM will give you the maximum weight of cargo and passengers that can be carried by your vehicle .
Land Cruiser with second stage compliance placard fitted following a GVM upgrade .
Confusion arises when a vehicle has had a GVM upgrade . These increase the load-carrying capacity of the vehicle . Normally , a second compliance plate is fitted , identified as a second stage manufacturer compliance plate . If a vehicle has had a GVM upgrade , the new compliance plate should be located near the original manufacturer ' s plate .
Be aware , too , that the GVM of some vehicles varies depending on the amount of mass placed on the towball .
Note : GVM is a rating that must not be exceeded .
MAXIMUM TOWING CAPACITY
Maximum Towing Capacity is the total trailer weight that can be towed by the vehicle . It includes the towball weight of the trailer . Be very careful when assessing the towing capacity of your vehicle . Normally it is stated in the vehicle handbook or the manufacturer ' s website , but it should also be stated on the towbar itself . It is usually subject to towbar and / or towball capacity as well as the design of the towbar itself . It may be reduced if a non-genuine towbar is fitted .
Note : Maximum Towing Capacity is a rating that must not be exceeded .
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