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submitted 2 days ago by cypherpunks@lemmy.ml to c/trains@lemmy.ml
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[-] leftascenter@jlai.lu 1 points 2 days ago

It's correct though.

ICE efficiency in a car ~ 20% for a car, gas to wheels.

Worst case scenario :

  • diesel running to generate electricity (the engine stays at its efficient point): 45-50%
  • battery efficiency to charge 85%
  • battery to movement efficiency ~85%

Electric cycle efficiency : ~33%

You need to add ~15% overweight for EV, making a conservative 28% total cycle efficiency.

It is definitely the energy density which makes the difference.

this post was submitted on 27 May 2026
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