Nicolas Tractomas

High school (ages 12+)
Transportation

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/nicolas-tractomas

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. How heavy is Nicolas Tractomas?71 tons (approx. 142,000 pounds)
2. What is the vehicle classification?Heavy-duty ballast tractor for super-heavy modular transport
3. What is the manufacturer?Nicolas Industrie, France
4. Why does the Nicolas Tractomas have extra weight?The extra weight, called ballast, gives it more traction and stability when pulling very heavy loads.
5. When was the Nicolas Tractomas made?It was built from 1979 until 2016, a long time of production.

Ballast Tractor: A specialized heavy-duty truck with integrated ballast for enhanced traction and stability when hauling extreme loads.
Hydraulic Modular Trailer: A versatile trailer system utilizing hydraulic jacks and steering for precise load adjustment and maneuverability of oversized cargo.
Bespoke Engineering: The design and construction of vehicles or equipment tailored precisely to the unique specifications and requirements of a client.
Oversize/Overweight Loads: Cargo exceeding standard legal dimensions or weight limits, requiring specialized transport permits and equipment.