Quote:
Originally Posted by Xist
I have had people furiously insist that air conditioning does not decrease fuel economy. Really? Electricity bills are ridiculous during the summer specifically because of the air conditioning, except you are relying on a gas-powered generator?
It is amazing how people use wishful thinking to justify their decisions.
|
The gas-powered generator is
already running. Adding A/C what with today’s efficient systems isn’t much of a burden. I think you need to revisit that one.
Fire off a 7-liter Chrysler with an RV-2 compressor and IT IS 10% or better at speed. (It required matched drive belts. Literally cut from same roll and next to each other). Up to 20% around town. The competitors weren’t really any better in the 1960s - ‘70’s.
But one could open vent windows, and floor vents to modify airflow at speed. Windows opened about 1-2”. Fall & Spring. Not forced to use HVAC like today.
It’s the same problem as today, though, where folks DONT account for slow speeds & idle time. That 70-mph trip is more like an average 57-mph. Failure to understand their own driving. And those slow or stopped moments can cook you.
An EM driver counting pennies would start up the air conditioner as he exits the highway. The small on-highway savings would underwrite a fair amount given a great distance covered (were fatigue not a factor).
.