Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) and Curb Weight refer to different aspects of a vehicle's total mass:
Curb Weight – This is the weight of the vehicle without passengers, cargo, or additional accessories, but it includes standard equipment, necessary fluids, and a full tank of fuel. It represents the vehicle's weight when it is ready to drive but empty.
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) – This is the total weight of the vehicle when fully loaded, including passengers, cargo, and any additional accessories. It varies depending on the load the vehicle is carrying at any given time.
A related term, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), refers to the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and fuel, as specified by the manufacturer. Exceeding the GVWR can affect safety and performance.
