Stellantis’ resurrected SRT divisi its performance arm responsible for things with names like Hellcat- has already started to explore the next evolution of performance powertrains. It unveiled a proof-of-concept system it called eBoost Air- an electrically assisted turbocharging technology designed to eliminate turbo lag without dampening the high-end power of large turbochargers. Turbo lag has long been one of the problems of large turbochargers. While bigger turbos can generate more horsepower at higher engine speeds, they require substantial exhaust flow before reaching peak efficiency, leaving a delay in throttle response at lower rpm. Stellantis says eBoost Air targets that gap by placing an electrically powered compressor ahead of the turbochargers. When the driver stomps on the throttle pedal, electronically controlled valves route incoming air through the compressor, creating positive boost pressure almost instantly. As exhaust flow builds, the conventional turbochargers take over, and the system returns to its normal airflow path. The concept isn’t a new one. Automakers including Mercedes-AMG, Porsche, Audi, and Ferrari have all played around with electrically assisted turbocharging in recent years, especially as emissions regulations have increasingly favor smaller, turbocharged engines.
