How is the rear overhang (ROH) critical in vehicle design?

The rear overhang (ROH) is indeed critical in vehicle design as it refers to the portion of the vehicle's body that extends beyond the rear axle. This design aspect plays a crucial role in the overall stability of the vehicle. When the rear overhang is too long, it can lead to increased instability, especially during turns or when driving on inclines, as it shifts the vehicle's center of gravity further away from the axle. A well-designed ROH helps to ensure that the vehicle maintains proper weight distribution and balance, significantly contributing to safety and handling characteristics.

While it’s true that factors like fuel efficiency, weight distribution, and cargo space are important in vehicle design, they do not have the same direct relationship with the vehicle’s stability as the rear overhang does. Stability is fundamental for driver control and passenger safety, which is why the rear overhang is particularly critical in this context.