Electric Turbochargers Eliminate Lag, Improve Fuel Economy

Electric turbochargers are on their way, but how exactly do they work?

Audi is currently testing the technology for production models and French supplier Valeo is spilling more details on how electric turbochargers work. According to the company, an electric turbocharger eliminates turbo lag and is powered by an electric motor rather than exhaust. Even when it’s not needed, the turbo’s impeller that pumps air  into the cylinders, will still spin at 10,000 rpm resulting in minimal hesitation or lag in engine response when the gas pedal is pushed.

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Naturally there are downsides to the technology, mainly cost and power consumption. Currently, an electric turbo requires 48-volt power, using plenty of electricity and requiring automakers to add more electronics in the engine bay. In addition, the company mentioned that electric turbochargers can help reduce fuel consumption by seven to 20 percent.

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[Source: Automotive News]

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