FULL cognizance of the fact that the power-weight ratio of a vehicle is the fundamental factor which no trick or gadget can possibly circumvent, was brought about by the formulation of the SAE Truck Ability Rating, Mr. Wolf reminds. A better power-weight ratio can be accomplished, he explains, by three expedients, singly or collectively, these being: increasing the power of the engine; conserving the power developed; and reducing the weight of any of the components making up the gross vehicle weight.
Past and present practices covering the ratio of chassis weight to gross vehicle weight for 1935 and 1940 are analyzed in this paper; also horsepower to gross vehicle weight for 1931, 1935, and 1940. Some typical truck models are scrutinized for specification and design trends over the past ten years or more, emphasizing the horsepower and torque per pound of chassis weight, as well as the gross vehicle weight per pound-foot engine torque.
In pointing out hopeful solutions and goals for future development, Mr. Wolf stresses the vital importance of incorporating into the design and construction of the vehicles, those measures which will insure long life and continued output comparable with the original, without forcing remedial measures in the field of operation.