Why Are Today’s Vehicles Turbocharged? The Shift from Naturally Aspirated Engines
The transition from naturally aspirated engines to turbocharged ones in vehicles is a complex but interesting topic. This shift is driven by multiple factors, such as consumer expectations, stricter fuel economy regulations, and the quest for improved performance. As a Google SEO specialist, I will explore these aspects in detail to provide a comprehensive understanding of the trend.
The Current State of Turbocharged Engines
Contrary to popular belief, turbocharged engines are much more common than one might initially think. A visit to any car lot, whether new or used, would reveal that nearly all vehicles are equipped with turbocharged engines. Even motorcycles, which were traditionally naturally aspirated, have shifted towards turbocharging to enhance performance under various driving conditions.
The few naturally aspirated engines that are still available in the market are, for the most part, kept by enthusiasts or collectors. Diesel engines, on the other hand, often require boosting to function efficiently, making them a special case. However, in terms of newly manufactured vehicles, turbocharging has become the norm across different vehicle segments, including sedans, SUVs, and even sports cars.
Observations from Personal Experience
My observations and experiences with two BMW models—one from 2002 and the other from 2016—highlight the advantages and drawbacks of turbocharging. Both cars have straight-six engines, but the more recent one utilizes a single turbocharger.
The older car weighed approximately 3450 lbs, while the newer car, equipped with an AWD system, three extra gears in the transmission, and a turbo system, weighed around 3850 lbs. Despite the added weight, both cars exhibit remarkably similar fuel efficiency: 19-20 miles per gallon (mpg) in town and 31-32 mpg on the highway. This performance is made possible because the turbo system provides the necessary power under certain driving conditions, such as passing or merging onto a highway ramp, without compromising fuel economy during regular driving.
Powersetwise, the older car had about 190 horsepower (hp) and 190 foot-pounds (ft-lbs) of torque, whereas the newer car boasts 300 hp and 300 ft-lbs of torque. The flat torque curve of the turbocharged engine ensures consistent power delivery from 1300 to 5000 rpm. This makes the car more enjoyable to drive in city traffic and easier to handle on winding roads.
Reasons for the Shift to Turbocharged Engines
The primary driver behind the widespread adoption of turbocharged engines is the requirement to meet stringent fuel economy standards, particularly in the United States. These standards, known as ldquo;CAFErdquo; (Corporate Average Fuel Economy), mandate that automakers achieve a certain fuel efficiency for their fleets. To meet these regulations, car manufacturers have turned to smaller, turbocharged engines that can achieve better fuel economy while maintaining or even enhancing performance.
Consumers expect a certain level of power from a given car size. Therefore, manufacturers use turbocharging to maintain or increase power output while improving fuel efficiency. During regular driving, the turbo delivers the best possible fuel economy. However, when the car requires more power, such as during passing or merging onto a highway, the turbo engages, providing the necessary torque and horsepower.
Types of Turbocharged Engines
There are two main types of turbocharged engines: naturally aspirated and supercharged. Naturally aspirated engines rely on the atmospheric pressure to intake air, while supercharged engines use an external compressor to force more air into the engine. Turbocharged engines combine features of both systems, resulting in enhanced performance and better fuel efficiency.
Supercharged engines are generally used in performance-oriented vehicles, whereas turbocharged engines are found in a broader range of vehicles. The key advantage of turbocharged engines is their ability to provide improved power-to-weight ratio and better low-end torque, making them ideal for everyday driving.
Conclusion
The shift from naturally aspirated to turbocharged engines is a direct result of consumer expectations and the need to meet stricter fuel economy regulations. While turbocharged engines offer better performance and fuel efficiency, they require a different driving style to maximize their benefits. As times change, the trend towards turbocharging is likely to continue, with manufacturers striving to strike the right balance between power, efficiency, and drivability.