Which component must provide the majority of braking power in passenger vehicles and trucks?

The component that must provide the majority of braking power in passenger vehicles and trucks is the front bias. This is primarily due to the dynamics of how vehicles distribute weight during braking. When a vehicle comes to a stop, the weight shifts forward, increasing the load on the front wheels. As a result, the front brakes have more grip and are able to generate a greater amount of stopping force compared to the rear brakes.

Additionally, most braking systems are designed to take advantage of this weight transfer by having larger and more powerful brakes at the front. This design enhances overall braking effectiveness and stability. In practical terms, if a vehicle were to rely equally on all four wheels or have a bias towards the rear, it could lead to reduced braking performance and increased chances of rear-wheel skid, especially under hard braking conditions.

Understanding the importance of front bias in braking systems helps in grasping vehicle dynamics and the engineering decisions that prioritize safety and stopping power in automotive design.