Photo: Audi
In the battle for better performance and higher fuel economy, innovation is the only thing able to make a difference. So, how about cars fitted with electric superchargers?
French supplier Valeo came up with an electric supercharging system and Audi will be the first carmaker to give this new technology a try, most likely on the new SQ7 flagship SUV. However, it won't be long before other brands will adopt the technology that promises two big advantages.
According to Automotive News Europe, Valeo's electric supercharger can make lag time disappear, which comes as an advantage over (some) turbocharged engines known for slower throttle response.
While a turbocharger runs off exhaust gasses, Valeo's solution comes with an electric motor that provides the engine with an increased flow of air needed to boost acceleration.
Valeo says such a technical solution is worth adopting since it can reduce fuel consumption by six to 20 percent. Once the turbo lag is out of the way, power can be had at lower rpm, which means fuel economy - and the customer's budget - see great benefits.
The system is kind of similar to what BMW has to offer on the i8. The Bavarian hybrid uses a starter-generator delivering 11 HP and 38 lb-ft (52 Nm) during engine start-up, enough to annihilate the turbo lag of the 1.5-liter 3-cylinder petrol engine.
In the meantime, companies like Honeywell are also exploring the potential of an electric supercharger, according to the same source. The American conglomerate will launch such a product between 2017 and 2019, but will market it as an 'electrically driven compressor' or 'e-charger'.
According to Automotive News Europe, Valeo's electric supercharger can make lag time disappear, which comes as an advantage over (some) turbocharged engines known for slower throttle response.
While a turbocharger runs off exhaust gasses, Valeo's solution comes with an electric motor that provides the engine with an increased flow of air needed to boost acceleration.
Valeo says such a technical solution is worth adopting since it can reduce fuel consumption by six to 20 percent. Once the turbo lag is out of the way, power can be had at lower rpm, which means fuel economy - and the customer's budget - see great benefits.
The system is kind of similar to what BMW has to offer on the i8. The Bavarian hybrid uses a starter-generator delivering 11 HP and 38 lb-ft (52 Nm) during engine start-up, enough to annihilate the turbo lag of the 1.5-liter 3-cylinder petrol engine.
In the meantime, companies like Honeywell are also exploring the potential of an electric supercharger, according to the same source. The American conglomerate will launch such a product between 2017 and 2019, but will market it as an 'electrically driven compressor' or 'e-charger'.
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