What is the spacing between the two posts of a two-post car lift? and Why?

What is the spacing between the two posts of a two-post car lift? Why?
The distance between the two posts of a two-post car lift is typically between 2.7 meters and 3.1 meters (approximately 110-122 inches). The most common standard is a center-to-center distance of approximately 2.8 meters (112 inches), but the exact value depends on the model.
Why this distance?
1. To accommodate the width of most vehicles. Modern passenger cars are 1.7-2.0 meters wide, while SUVs and light trucks can reach 2.1 meters. A clearance of approximately 40-50 centimeters on each side of the car lift allows the lifting arm to easily reach the appropriate lifting point.
2. To allow for flexible arm movement. Two-post car lifts use a swing arm to reach the vehicle's lifting point.
If the posts of a two-post car lift are too close together:
The lifting arm cannot extend properly. Larger vehicles will also be unable to enter.
If the uprights are too wide: Small vehicles cannot safely reach both lifting points. The lift arm may overextend, leading to a decrease in lifting capacity. It can also easily cause the lift arm to deform. Therefore, a spacing of approximately 2.8 meters is the optimal compromise.
3. Structural Stability
The base plate or crossbeam of a car lift needs sufficient width to maintain the rigidity of the uprights. Too narrow will reduce stability; too wide will increase the bending moment and stress on the uprights and anchor bolts.
4. Compatibility with Industry Standards
Manufacturers design car lifts to be compatible with: various types of small vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, MPVs, pickup trucks, etc.
Therefore, the spacing is standardized across different brands.