Hmmm, I hadn't considered the absorptive refrigeration cycle. I think I need to do some more reading on that...... I never did really comprehended how that actually works. I'm not sure where you're reading the "no compressed gasses" That would mean that everyone would be required to remove the AC system in their cars.
I've definitely thought about doing it electrically, the problem is at 12V, it will draw an insane amount of current. From some quick internet research, the Prius compressor that guildenstern mentioned runs at 206v, 3-phase, with a variable frequency drive to control it. Let's for a minute, ignore the heart attack that's going to give Pagel, and let's consider it only from a technical perspective. I'm pretty sure there's no off-the-shelf 12vdc to 208v VFD's available on any even remotely lemony budget, so i'd have to make my own. 206V is bad enough by itself, never mind the fact that now it's being controlled by sketchy homebuilt electronics. I'm not sure I'D feel safe doing that, forget about what the tech guys would say! So, I think we're going to have to throw that suggestion out.
So, I'm back to something crankshaft driven. Good comment about the RPM, I hadn't thought it through that deeply yet. As-to WOT, i'm hoping a car sized system will be massively oversized, and will function acceptably while only being driven during braking and cornering. I'll definitely need a large liquid reservoir to smooth out the irregularities from only being driven 25% of the time.
Maximum Effort Motorsports - Mid-engine 1979 Chevette - Class C Winner - GP Du Lac Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg
New England Long Winter Build Award - 2015
IOE Winner, Loudon Annoying 2011, Judges Choice - Loudon Annoying 2012
Class C & Least Horrible Yank Tank winner - Boston Tow Party & Overhead Cam Bake 2011