In article ,
Edward W. Thompson wrote:
Think they calim 122bhp now... but its only 78 of your real bhp though -
since the engine is the only source of power ultimately. The claimed
output can only be sustained until the batteries are low on juice. An
enthusiastic drive round some B roads ought to see to that ;-)

Not sure I understand your point/obsession with horsepower. The
horsepower required to maintain the vehicle at a constant 60 mph in
still conditions will be about, say 15 hp (maybe less but not more) so
78 hp available seems adequate.

Then why do low powered cars not sell well in the UK? Because being able
to cruise at 60 - just - doesn't suit the majority. They want *any* car to
keep up easily on the motorway up hill and down dale regardless of whether
there's a wind, or the load it's carrying. Driving an underpowered car on
today's motorways is a very frustrating experience.

With respect to acceleration, sure that's important if you are going
to race the vehicle but what other true relevance does it have when
considering the car is for transportation? If you regard it as some
sort of macho toy then that is another matter. I suggest vehicles such
as the Prius are not intended for the 'boy racer' market.

They're not intended for this country full stop. They're made for some
cities in the US, etc. As a mainly town car.

You only have to look at the latest incarnation which is a Lexus similar
in size and shape to a Range Rover. But unlike a Range Rover, can't be
used off road, or to tow heavy loads. It produces very good fuel
consumption and performance *for that class of vehicle* but has little
relevance to this country either.

--
*If one synchronized swimmer drowns, do the rest have to drown too?

Dave Plowman London SW
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