`V_1 = ( "d" * V_2 )/( "d" - "h" )`

Enter a value for all fields

The Speed to Overtake by Distance calculator computes the average speed required to overtake a vehicle based on the speed of the vehicle, the head start, and the total distance.

INSTRUCTION: Choose units and enter the following:

• (h)  Distance between Vehicles (i.e. the head start)
• (V₁) Velocity of Chase Vehicle
• (d) Distance over which Chase Vehicle must catch Lead Vehicle

Speed to Overtake (V₁) The calculator returns the speed in miles per hour.  However, this can be automatically converted to compatible units via the pull-down menu.

Related Calculators

• Time to Overtake: Computes the distance in which the overtake will occur at constant velocities.
• Distance to Overtake: Computes the distance in which the overtake will occur at constant velocities.
• Speed to Overtake by a Distance: Computes the speed required to intercept within a distance boundary.
• Speed to Overtake in Time: Computes the speed required to intercept within a time boundary.

The Math / Science

The formula for the speed required to overtake is:

        V₁  = (d•V₂) / (d - h)

where:

• V₁ is the velocity or speed to overtake
• d is the distance required at the specified velocities for vehicle 1 to overtake vehicle 2.
• h is the distance between the vehicles or the head-start.
• V₂ is the velocity of vehicle two.

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