In article ,
Ian Johnston wrote:
In short: using a small petrol engine to charge the batteries of a
hybrid car is just as sensible and cost-efficient as using mains
power.

Think you're assuming that the calorific value of petrol gets transferred
completely into electricity. Even with the best of engines running at
optimum speed, I doubt that even 50% does. Of course, charging a battery
is very little better.

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*Why are a wise man and a wise guy opposites? *

Dave Plowman London SW 12
RIP Acorn