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This paper shows a performance analysis of a tractor-semitrailer during the braking process, on a dry road surface, under any operating condition. In order to carry out this analysis, mathematical modelling with the “static equilibrium” or “centre of gravity range” technique application was used. The results obtained were corroborated by experimental data and were very satisfactory. The related computer program was developed in association with Mercedes-Benz of Brazil. At present, this mathematical modelling and the related computer program are being used by Mercedes-Benz of Brazil for definition of the brake system of their heavy vehicles.

This paper shows a study of the influence of the brake force distribution on the directional stability of a tractor-semitrailer during the braking process in a rectilinial trajectory, for different operating conditions (empty and with full load). A computer program was developed in association with Mercedes-Benz of Brazil it will be used.

The aim of this paper is introduce an original and innovative technique called performance charts to obtain the performance of heavy vehicles during braking process. Several performance charts are shown for an example heavy vehicle and are discussed the results obtained, that include values of stopping distance, maximum and average deceleration, efficiency and others obtained during the braking process of the example vehicle. As well is shown the importance of the application of this technique on the braking system definition process of heavy vehicles, on the orientation of the users of these vehicles or fleet-owner and on the verification of legal requirements established by regulations of braking performance of these vehicles.

This paper shows the performance, the braking distribution and the compatibility of heavy vehicles during braking process. including some ECE-R13 [1] requirements to brake systems of these vehicles. Also, it will be shown satisfactory results reached on comparisons between theoretical and experimental values of braking performance of the example vehicle. For the achievement of this work, a mathematical model and a computer program developed for the commercial vehicles braking process study were used, that permits the obtainment of performance and of braking and vertical forces distribution charts to the example tractor-semi-trailer during braking process.