What does the term "gross vehicle weight rating" (GVWR) refer to?

The term "gross vehicle weight rating" (GVWR) is defined as the weight capacity a vehicle can safely carry, encompassing not only the weight of the vehicle itself but also the weight of all passengers, cargo, and any additional equipment. This rating is established by the manufacturer and indicates the maximum safe weight limit for the vehicle, which is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with transportation regulations.

Understanding GVWR is important because exceeding it can adversely affect a vehicle's handling, braking, and stability, leading to increased risk of accidents. Therefore, option B accurately captures the concept of GVWR as it includes both the weight of the vehicle and the weight of any additional loads it carries within safe limits.