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Peak efficiencies at full output vary from 55% to almost 80%.
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I would argue that, at least with GM's current alternator design, that the losses are not as great as shown in this paper.
Most alternators made in the last 10 years are not simply on all the time. Instead, the field coils are PWM controlled to react to load demands and compensate for variable RPM operation. See Pin C(Terminal L) below: