Can an Electronic Turbocharger Enhance Power?
3 Answers
An electronic turbocharger can indeed enhance power. Generally, a turbocharger can increase power output by approximately 30%. It operates by utilizing the inertial force of exhaust gases expelled by the engine to drive a turbine within the turbocharger housing. This turbine, in turn, rotates a coaxial impeller, which compresses incoming air from the air filter intake and forces it into the engine cylinders under increased pressure. Below is relevant information about turbochargers: 1. Advantages: The primary benefit of a turbocharger lies in its ability to significantly boost engine power and torque without necessitating an increase in engine displacement. After installing a turbocharger, engine power and torque typically increase by 20% to 30%. 2. Disadvantages: The main drawback of turbochargers is lag. Due to the inertia of the impeller, there's a delayed response to sudden throttle changes, resulting in a lag in power output adjustment. This means vehicles requiring sudden acceleration or overtaking may experience a momentary sensation of insufficient power.
I've been into car modifications for ten years, and I really have to pour some cold water on this electric turbo thing. Sure, throttle response feels a bit quicker at startup, and overtaking in the city feels smoother. But if you dare take it on the highway, the motor's RPM simply can't keep up with an exhaust turbo—once you hit 50 mph, it actually becomes an exhaust restriction. My buddy didn't believe me and spent eight grand on a German-branded kit, only to fry his battery twice in a month. Unless you're just looking for quicker starts in your grocery-getter, I honestly advise you to save that money and invest in a set of high-performance spark plugs instead—way more reliable.
Old Zhang from the repair shop told me that 90% of the electronic turbos on the market now are produced by small workshops. The principle sounds great: the ECU detects the throttle opening and starts the motor, theoretically solving turbo lag. But the motor can't withstand the temperature in the engine compartment. Last week, we just dismantled a heavily modified Civic, and the fan blades were melted and deformed. What's worse, the modification requires cutting wires, and unstable voltage can interfere with the car's computer, causing fault codes. If you really want to improve performance, it's better to flash the ECU program, at least it won't damage the car.
