On Sun, Dec 02, 2007 at 11:39:37AM -0500, David VanHorn wrote:
> > The only problem is that the efficiency of such a system would be very
> > poor. You'll get losses at each conversion (gas -> electricity,
> > electricity -> motor)
> 
> 
> Why do trains use this method then? (Minus the batteries)

>From Diesel locomotive FAQ: http://exotic.railfan.net/dieselfaq.htm

-------------------------------
13. Why use an electric transmission? Why not a hydraulic or direct drive
transmission?

To put it simply, electrical transmissions match engine capabilities better
than other systems. The electric transmission allows the engine to operate
at the most efficient RPM and horsepower for the conditions of a railroad.
-------------------------------

May not be true for cars. Considering that there are hundreds of millions
of gas/diesel cars, the same conditions may not apply.

BAJ
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