Energy question

[KARL]

Does anyone know where I can find figures indicating the amount of energy (total, including all on refining materials) used in producing an average family car today, as expressed in litres of carbon fuel ? Also, is there a better place to post this question.....?

[jake-the-peg]

You could try Science.

I think this is quite a difficult question and I may be wrong but I don't think you'll find an easy pat answer - especially including mining, refining costs etc.

I'm afraid you'll probably have to do some digging and work yourself.

This paper for example is on Aluminium cars but gives an energy cost in MJ/Kg for manufacture of car costs in the US for various materials.

http://www.transportation.anl.gov/pdfs/TA/106. pdf (chapter 6)