BorgWarner Launches 48-Volt Electric Air Intake Compressor

BorgWarner Inc. has begun producing its eBooster electrically driven air intake compressor to enhance low-end boost for engine turbocharger systems.

The company says it is supplying the 48-volt system, which includes a brushless DC motor, samarium-cobalt magnets and power electronics, to three carmakers. Daimler AG (the only identified customer) will use eBooster with its new turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine.

The system enables 6-cylinder engines to deliver the same performance as a V-8 while boosting fuel efficiency as much as 10%, according to BorgWarner. The technology can be used in vehicles powered by standalone combustion engines or hybrid-electric systems.

The electric compressor delivers boost on demand until the turbocharger takes over, which BorgWarner says virtually eliminates turbo lag. Another purported benefit: enhanced low-end torque.