[MHml] "electric wheel" replacing Diesels

[Tom Speer]

R Hepler wrote:
> 
> ...So where does it get its fuel?  Either way, you
> exchange the diesel engine for a diesel genset, so the
> touted removal of a stinky diesel engine is only partly
> true.

I agree.  I can see some savings if you end up running your
engine more to provide house current than to motor the boat.  In
that case, the genset may be a more efficient alternative.  And
if the motoring is done intermittently then the water turbine may
provide the power in the long term.

...
> I Think (4) below is the BIG weak link in this chain.  When
> you get into trouble and need the power, you might be SOL.
> (5) is not much good for very long, but maybe we need to
> learn more patience ;-)

Yeah, I think #1 is really the only place where electric would be
competitive.  But if that's all you use the motor for...

Cheers,

-- 
Tom Speer
tspeer at gte.net
http://home1.gte.net/tspeer
fax: +1 206 878 5269