[A/S] Hybrids as tow vehicles

["Oliver Filippi" <ofilippi@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Robert,

Despite all the hype, a hybrid is not going to be much of a solution in the
search for a fuel efficient, good performing tow vehicle.

Hybrids are a good solution for a city taxicab or a city bus, with stop and
go driving.  The whole idea of a hybrid is to use a small, fuel efficient
engine which is continually charging a battery.  Also, when the brakes are
applied, the rotational energy is recovered and used to recharge the battery
via small generator(s) connected to the wheels instead of going into
friction and heat. Then, when you need the burst of power, you utilize both
the small engine and the stored up energy in the battery.

This technology doesn't do much for you when you have a heavy load (a
trailer, etc.) and you are climbing a long grade.  Once you drain the
battery, all you have left is the anemic engine for power.

So, unless you tow your Airstream exclusively around town, or down hills,
the hybrid will not be a very practical solution.

Oliver Filippi