> I sometimes come across stationary cars with a running engine, and I honestly wonder why anyone does that.
As someone who frequents very warm countries, I think most people do it because of the AC. If the engine is not on, the AC won't adjust the temperature that you've selected.
I have a Volvo hybrid where the AC continues running even when the main ICE is off(as long as you have charge in the main battery pack). It's honestly fantastic.
Hybrid (or PEV/BEV) car's electric A/C is heavily underrated feature compared to pure ICE cars. Idling engine only for A/C seems to really inefficient. I think every police cars should be at least hybrid, but still not here.
Toyota Hybrids do this too and it’s an incredible experience to sit in a parking lot blasting full efficiency AC with the engine off. I’ve heard of people camping overnight in their Priuses this way with minimal engine use.
As someone who frequents very warm countries, I think most people do it because of the AC. If the engine is not on, the AC won't adjust the temperature that you've selected.