Mercedes-AMG develops electric turbocharger

Mercedes-AMG has partnered with Garrett Motion to develop an electric exhaust gas turbocharger.

The manufacturer has not mentioned which models will receive the new turbocharger, but claims the technology is already in the final stages of development. Mercedes-AMG states that the new technology resolves the conflicting goals of having a fast-reacting turbocharger, while effectively eliminating the presence of turbo lag.

The innovative turbocharging system utilises a 41mm-wide electric motor integrated directly on the turbocharger shaft, between the turbine wheel on the exhaust side and the compressor wheel on the fresh air side. This electronically controlled electric motor drives the compressor wheel before accepting the exhaust gas flow.

Mercedes-AMG states that the electrification of the turbocharger significantly improves engine response from idle as well as across the entire engine speed range while eliminating turbo lag, resulting in a combustion engine that responds even more immediately to accelerator pedal input for a more dynamic driving character. The new turbocharger is also destined to be used in a next generation series production model from Affalterbach.

The turbocharger can achieve speeds of up to 170,000rpm, and can be operated via a 48V on-board electrical system. The turbocharger, electric motor and power electronics are connected to the combustion engine's cooling circuit to create an optimised temperature environment at all times.