Mercedes-AMG is developing an electric exhaust gas turbocharger for future series production.
The project is in partnership with Garrett Motion and the technology comes from Formula 1, said to resolve “the conflicting goals between a small, fast-reacting turbocharger which achieves relatively low peak performance and a large turbocharger with a high peak performance but which on the other hand can suffer from turbo lag”.
The system uses a slim electric motor, measuring about 4cm (1.6 inches) which is integrated directly on the charger shaft between the turbine wheel on the exhaust side and the compressor wheel on the fresh air side.
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By GlobalDataThis electronically controlled electric motor drives the compressor wheel before this accepts the exhaust gas flow.
The electrification of the turbocharger is said to significantly improve immediate response from idle speed and across the entire engine speed range.
The so called turbo lag – the delayed response of a conventional turbocharger – is eliminated by the electric motor, the automaker claims.
The result is the combustion engine responds more spontaneously to accelerator pedal input, and the entire driving feel is significantly more dynamic and agile.
Turbocharger electrification also enables higher torque at low engine speeds which also enhances agility and optimises acceleration capability from a standstill.
When coasting or braking, the electric turbocharger is able to maintain boost pressure for a continuous direct response.
The turbocharger achieves speeds of up to 170,000 rpm, which enables a very high rate of air flow. It is operated by a 48 volt electrical system.
The turbocharger, electric motor and power electronics are connected to the combustion engine’s cooling circuit to create an optimum temperature environment.
“We have clearly defined our goals for an electrified future,” said Mercedes-AMG chairman Tobias Moers.
“With this move we are strategically supplementing our modular technology and tailoring it to our performance requirements. In a first step this includes the electrified turbocharger – an example of the transfer of Formula 1 technology to the road, something with which we will take turbocharged combustion engines to a previously unattainable level of agility.”
