WOW, this is an old post.
Since I never saw B-spot's post; The alt gets a constant 14V from the battery assuming it is properly charged. then depending on the power needed to recharge the battery the regulator adjusts the amount of voltage going into the alt. The regulator converts this unneeded voltage to HEAT, it does not magically disappear, I'm aware that you cannot simply make energy disappear. Once again you are comparing a generator to an alternator. Read up, the two are different, modern street cars have a 3-phase alternator. The work needed to turn the alt will increase but it is < 0.3% (crank HP)so IMO, and my physics profs. opinion, its negligible. Of cousre the oil in the engine has been documented to make 3+% difference in WHP.
But, alas, I am just an owned tool who knows nothing of physics, chemistry, or the fact that modern cars have alternators, not generators, or any knowledge of how alternators, or any other car part works. But please carry on with schooling on the peeps :notworthy:
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I'm on a boat.....
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