Light vehicle

nounStandard termAutomotive

A passenger car or small commercial truck falling below a specific gross vehicle weight rating.

A light vehicle is a regulatory and industry classification for passenger cars, SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks that fall under a specific weight threshold. This threshold is typically a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 8,500 to 10,000 pounds, depending on the jurisdiction. They are subject to different emissions, safety, and licensing standards than heavy commercial trucks.

Heard on the job

This two-post lift is rated for 10,000 pounds, so it handles any light vehicle we get in the shop.

Do not mix it up with

  • Heavy vehicle: Light vehicles are standard passenger and small commercial cars; heavy vehicles are large commercial trucks and buses.