Turbo lag is the momentary delay in acceleration that can occur when stepping on the gas pedal of a turbocharged vehicle. The issue occurs because the turbocharger needs a split second to build speed using the engine's exhaust gases before it can push compressed air into the engine. This is especially true for models fitted with large turbochargers. While turbo lag is perfectly normal, it can make a turbocharged engine feel less responsive than a naturally aspirated or supercharged one.
To remedy this issue, the engineers at SRT (Street and Racing Technology) are developing a prototype called eBoost Air. Although this innovative technology is still in the developmental phase, there's a good chance it could one day enter production.
The system involves mounting a 48-volt electric compressor upstream of the exhaust-driven turbo, which then uses a specialized electronic bypass valve to force-feed air into the engine. It effectively pre-spools the turbocharger. Once exhaust gases take over at higher RPMs, airflow is rerouted to the standard intake path. Because boost builds much sooner, drivers can look forward to significantly improved throttle response with virtually no turbo lag.
During a special SRT Performance Engineering Day presentation in Detroit, SRT demonstrated the potential of eBoost Air inside a fifth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee concept. With a twin-turbocharged HURRICANE I6 High-Output (H/O) engine under the hood, the SUV showcased just how well this developmental technology works.
Automotive journalists and content creators got an opportunity to experience the SUV's hard acceleration during a ride-along. With eBoost Air, responsiveness was similar to that of a traditional supercharged V8 engine. Not only did eBoost Air successfully enhance acceleration, but it also increased output to around 640 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque. This represents a significant performance increase over the standard Hurricane engine, which was rated to produce 550 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque.
If you would like updates on new models or wish to schedule a test drive, contact Berkshire Hathaway Automotive today.