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Old 08-14-2007, 08:11 AM
wwest wwest is offline
Pretty Darn Active Enthusiast
 
Real Name: willard west
Location: Beautiful Pacific NW
Hybrids: 2003 Prius
Posts: 490
Default Re: Driving with no electric assist

Actually the real numbers are even worse. Although you have a 100HP engine it RARELY operates at that level mostly operates down around 20-30HP, making that 5HP A/C a "honking: ~20% of the load factor.

"Compressor capacity is also a function of RPM."

Yes, and you can be certain sure that the designers, to make up for that shortcoming, gave the compressor enough capacity so it could keep you cool and charming while idling along on a HOT and bright sunny day in stop and go traffic. Which is why it has its own private CLUTCH.

I would imagine tha design capacity is such that the clutch will be engaged almost 100% of the time that the engine is at or near idle for extended periods.

Insofar as FE is concerned could things be any worse...?

Well.....YES.

You could use a compressor driven by the hybrid battery.

Last edited by wwest; 08-14-2007 at 08:13 AM.
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