design speed

Definitions

1. 1

   Of a transport system (such as a road or railway), the assumed vehicle speed used in…

   Of a transport system (such as a road or railway), the assumed vehicle speed used in calculations when designing the system; typically the fastest speed at which it is deemed safe to use the system.

   • The road's design speed is only 60mph, as some of the corners are a little sharp.
2. 2

   Of something that moves (such as a vehicle or motor), the optimal speed as endorsed by…

   Of something that moves (such as a vehicle or motor), the optimal speed as endorsed by its designers; typically in terms of some balance of various factors that are relevant to the object's purpose, such as longevity, efficiency and velocity.

   • The vessel's design speed is 20 knots, though we can push her up to 25 if necessary.

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