I assume when you’re talking about a “steam engine” you are referring to a closed-loop recovery system which uses some “propellant” medium other than water...much like an automotive AC system, only in reverse.
> I assume when you’re talking about a “steam engine” you are referring to a closed-loop recovery system which uses some “propellant” medium other than water...much like an automotive AC system, only in reverse.
No, Rock.
Closed-loop recovery engines require very large radiators, and are more prone to failures than open-cycle. For a compact car, they probably would be too big.
Open-cycle steam engines would be very simple, and could be adapted much more quickly than a closed-loop design.
Long-term, closed cycle would be the way to go. But if someone wants to sell a E-cat powered car next year - basically it would have to be open-cycle steam.