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Major power stations are far more efficient than a million individual engines. Even if the power stations literally ran off petrol we’d still be in a better pos
by chrisseaton 5y ago
Major power stations are far more efficient than a million individual engines. Even if the power stations literally ran off petrol we’d still be in a better position than before.
- selimnairb 5y agoNot sure this is right. Coal plants are at best 40% efficient, combined-cycle natural gas 60%. Then you have transmission losses (2-13%), and then inefficiency in EV chargers. Atkinson-cycle engines (often used in hybrids like the Prius) can reach 40% efficiency. Seems like a wash to me in terms of efficiency. On the other hand, if using solar or wind, efficiency becomes a little less interesting because the fuel is "free".
- zelos 5y agoThere’s also a significant amount of emissions from the production and transportation of petrol/diesel for use in vehicles you have to factor in.
- chrisseaton 5y agoI meant in terms of emissions, rather than simple mechanical efficiency. Power stations at scale can have complex emissions management. Car engine's don't.