Let’s say we are driving from A to B. The beginning of the drive starts with a steep uphill, but the remaining drive is long and downhill. Points A and B are the same elevation. Which direction (A to B or B to A) is more energy efficient (less fuel consumption)? Or is it maybe equal?

252 views
0 Comments

EDIT: I am discussing real world scenario in a car. I will definitely check the fuel consumption next time I drive from Reykjavík (B) to Hveragerði (A) (and back) here in Iceland. Thanks for great answers 🙂

In: 1

6 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

Real life or ideal physics model?

In the ideal physics model, they would be equal.

In real life, it depends on the vehicle concerned. It will depend on how much braking is involved and how efficient the engine is at different loads and speed. With braking, there is no longer a closed system for energy as brake dissipate energy as heat. So one of the question is, how much braking is needed?
You are viewing 1 out of 6 answers, click here to view all answers.