How does a car's loads affect it's fuel consumption?

In summary: I have now driven an old car with a dynamo and an alternator and it is just as bad!The car gets slower when you turn things on because the dynamo is drawing power from the alternator to generate electricity.
  • #1
Aicy
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Hi, so I was wondering about how the car's LED, MP3/IPOD, AC systems consumes up electrical power and then to fuel?

Let's say that the loads are running for 5-7 hours. Thanks for the replies/ideas!
 
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  • #2
Aicy said:
Hi, so I was wondering about how the car's LED, MP3/IPOD, AC systems consumes up electrical power and then to fuel?

Let's say that the loads are running for 5-7 hours. Thanks for the replies/ideas!

Welcome to the PF.

What is a car's LED system?

And a car's air conditioning system (AC) power consumption is very different from any MP3/radio power consumption. Why may running the AC actually improve gas mileage?

Do you know the conversion between horsepower and watts? :smile:
 
  • #3
Also, what is the context of your question? Are you wanting to have some ammunition to make your kids turn off their MP3 players on long trips? :biggrin:
 
  • #5
Running the cars AC system doesn't improve gas mileage. Failing to drive with the windows open improves gas mileage.
 
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  • #6
Aicy said:
Hi, so I was wondering about how the car's LED, MP3/IPOD, AC systems consumes up electrical power and then to fuel?

Let's say that the loads are running for 5-7 hours. Thanks for the replies/ideas!
Had a friend that did not believe that lights influence consumption. A simple demo.
Engine on. Lights off. Car in neutral. Look at the rpm meter. Turn on lights.
The rpm will fall slightly from the drop in electrical resistance which puts more mechanical resistance on the "alternator" and as it is connected to the engine rpms get affected. And they rise back from more fuel given to the engine by the "regulator" (no idea of the terminology in EN).
 
  • #7
Any energy taken from the fuel that is not used to drive the wheels will increase fuel consumption.
Anybody ever driven an old car that has an dynamo rather than alternator? Every time you switch on something, the car gets slower...try it in the winter with the lights, heater, wipers on, any attempt to put on the radio and the car almost stops!
 
  • #8
when I first read this question I thought "It depends on the terrain and how many fat ladies".
 

1. How does the weight of a car affect its fuel consumption?

The weight of a car can greatly impact its fuel consumption. The more a car weighs, the more energy it needs to move, which ultimately leads to higher fuel consumption. This is because the engine has to work harder to accelerate, decelerate, and maintain a constant speed. Therefore, a heavier car will typically have lower fuel efficiency compared to a lighter car.

2. How do road conditions impact a car's fuel consumption?

Road conditions such as inclines, declines, and rough terrain can significantly affect a car's fuel consumption. When driving uphill, the engine has to work harder to maintain speed, resulting in higher fuel consumption. Similarly, driving downhill may require the use of brakes, which can also decrease fuel efficiency. Rough roads with potholes and bumps can cause a car to use more energy to maintain stability, leading to higher fuel consumption.

3. Does driving at higher speeds increase fuel consumption?

Yes, driving at higher speeds can significantly increase a car's fuel consumption. This is because the air resistance or drag increases as the speed of the car increases. As a result, the engine has to work harder to overcome this resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption. Studies have shown that driving at speeds above 55 mph can decrease fuel efficiency by up to 15%.

4. How do different driving styles affect a car's fuel consumption?

The way a driver operates a car can also impact its fuel consumption. Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and braking, can lead to higher fuel consumption. This is because frequent changes in speed require more energy from the engine. On the other hand, a more conservative driving style, with smooth acceleration and braking, can help improve fuel efficiency.

5. Does the type of fuel used affect a car's fuel consumption?

Yes, the type of fuel used can affect a car's fuel consumption. Different types of fuel, such as regular, premium, or diesel, have different energy densities. This means that some fuels can produce more energy per gallon than others, resulting in better fuel efficiency. Additionally, some engines are designed to run on specific types of fuel, and using the wrong fuel can decrease fuel efficiency.

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