Quote:
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Originally Posted by Triffin
"I'm surprised they don't have a diesel electric combo like a locomotive. A constant speed diesel runs at its most efficient speed driving a generator which supplies power to run an electric motor which moves the vehicle."
I thought of this too .. I think the reason it
isn't done is that you end up with fewer mpg
when the diesel engine is used to run a generator
vs running the drive train .. anyone know for
sure ??
Triff ..
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If the engine is disconnected from driving the wheels directly, you will have conversion losses driving the wheels with electricity alone. The automotive hybrids have the electric motor on the same power train, so it can be used as a regenerative brake, and store energy to assist acceleration.
A locomotive is configured the way it is to take advantage of the low rpm torque characteristics of DC motors, and no transmission is then necessary. Think of how many gears would be needed to directly couple a diesel engine to a locomotive -- I ain't gonna clutch that thing!