How to use this calculator
- Enter vehicle mass. Use the test weight if you want lateral force.
- Enter speed. Set the speed through the turn or skidpad.
- Enter radius. Use the path radius at the vehicle centerline.
- Read lateral g. Review g level, lateral force and circle lap time.
How it works
The calculator uses a_lat = v^2 / r and reports a_lat / g. It also multiplies acceleration by mass to show lateral force.
Pair it with weight transfer, corner weights and suspension wheel rate when working through chassis setup.
Worked example
Verified against the live calculator
A 1500 kg vehicle at 50 mph on a 60 m radius circle demands about 0.85 g lateral acceleration and roughly 12.5 kN of lateral force.
Frequently asked questions
How do you calculate lateral g?
Lateral acceleration is speed squared divided by turn radius, then divided by standard gravity to report g.
Can I use this for a skidpad?
Yes, if the speed and radius represent the same circular path. Keep the radius definition consistent when comparing runs.
Does this include tire limits?
No. It calculates the demanded lateral acceleration and force, not whether the tires can hold it.
Why enter vehicle mass?
Mass is needed to calculate lateral force. The g value itself depends only on speed and radius.
Method & assumptions
- Assumes steady circular motion at constant radius and speed.
- Banking, aero load, tire load sensitivity, transient response and combined braking/turning are not modeled.