eBoost Air uses an electric compressor to reduce turbo lag.
Prototype system is paired with the 3.0L Hurricane inline-six engine.
SRT developed the concept using rapid engineering and prototype methods.
Stellantis has introduced a new powertrain concept through its Street and Racing Technology (SRT) performance division. Called eBoost Air, the technology combines an electrically driven compressor with conventional exhaust-powered turbochargers to reduce turbo lag while maintaining the high-output capability of larger turbochargers.
The proof-of-concept system has been demonstrated on a prototype version of Stellantis’ 3.0L Hurricane high-output inline-six engine. Rather than relying solely on exhaust gases to build turbocharger speed, the electric compressor generates boost pressure immediately after throttle application, improving low-speed response before exhaust flow becomes sufficient.
SRT eBoost Air e-compressor technology powertrain concept | Photo: SRTAs engine speed increases, the system transfers boost generation to the conventional turbochargers. This allows the electric compressor to assist only during periods when exhaust energy is limited, at lower engine rpms. The exhaust-driven turbochargers take over to provide sustained forced induction at higher engine speeds.
The arrangement delivers the performance potential of larger turbochargers without the delayed throttle response commonly associated with high-capacity turbocharged engines. The system provides stronger acceleration from low rpm without negatively impacting high-end power across the rev range.
The eBoost Air system places the electric compressor upstream of the turbochargers and incorporates an electronically controlled bypass valve. During rapid acceleration requests, airflow is routed through the electric compressor to build pressure and accelerate turbocharger spool-up. Once the turbochargers reach their operating speed, airflow returns to the conventional induction path.
SRT eBoost Air e-compressor technology powertrain concept | Photo: SRTTim Kuniskis, head of American brands and marketing for Stellantis North America, said the technology focuses on delivering measurable performance improvements rather than introducing technology for its own sake. He described eBoost Air as a practical solution designed to address turbo lag and support performance objectives traditionally associated with the SRT brand.
Stellantis says the resulting power delivery more closely resembles the immediate, linear response associated with supercharged V8 engines but retains the efficiency advantages of turbocharging.
Other alternatives to tackling turbo lag used by many automakers include trading gas-driven turbines in favour of fully electric ones, in-line twin-turbocharging (a small charger followed by a larger one), twin-charging (a supercharger building low-end boost to feed the turbocharger), and a variable-geometry turbocharger that relies on adjustable internal vanes.
