The arrangement of the wheel studs on a vehicle hub, commonly expressed as a number of studs followed by the diameter of the circle they form (e.g., 5×150), is a critical factor in wheel compatibility. This specification ensures that a wheel will properly and safely mount to the vehicle. For instance, a specification of 5×150 indicates a wheel requires five studs positioned on a circle with a 150mm diameter.
Adherence to this specification is paramount for vehicle safety and performance. Using wheels with an incorrect arrangement can lead to wheel detachment, potentially causing accidents and serious injury. The correct arrangement also ensures proper load distribution, preventing undue stress on the studs and hub assembly. Historically, this measurement has evolved alongside vehicle design and engineering to accommodate increasing vehicle size and load capacity.