Ground clearance is the distance between the lowest point of a car component and the ground. It is also known as ride height. Ground clearance is an important factor in a cars stability and handling, and it can affect the cars ability to pass through obstacles like speed bumps, potholes, and uneven roads. A car with a low ground clearance has a lower center of mass, which makes it handle better, but it also increases the risk of damage to the undercarriage and the probability of getting caught on low obstacles. On the other hand, a car with a high ground clearance is better suited for off-road driving and can protect the vehicles underbelly from getting scratched.

Most manufacturers define ground clearance in unladen vehicle condition, which means a vehicle without any extra load. It is important to note that when the vehicle is loaded with cargo and passengers, the available ride height is always lower than specified in the actual running condition. Different body types of vehicles have different standards for ground clearance. Sedans and sports cars have very low ground clearance, while SUVs have the highest ride height.

In summary, ground clearance is an important factor in a cars stability, handling, and ability to pass through obstacles. It is the distance between the lowest point of a car component and the ground, and it can vary depending on the vehicles body type. A car with a low ground clearance has a lower center of mass, which makes it handle better, but it also increases the risk of damage to the undercarriage and the probability of getting caught on low obstacles. A car with a high ground clearance is better suited for off-road driving and can protect the vehicles underbelly from getting scratched.