Skip to content
EN · km
Units
My Garage
Automotive glossary

Electric Turbocharger

An electric turbocharger has an electric motor on the turbo shaft that spins it up instantly, reducing lag before exhaust flow builds.

On this page

What is Electric Turbocharger?

It usually needs a 48-volt electrical system. A related idea is a separate electric compressor that boosts at low revs. The motor can also recover energy from the exhaust. Formula 1 power units have used electric assistance on the turbo shaft.

How it works

The motor accelerates the compressor wheel directly, so boost arrives before exhaust energy is high.

Why it matters for your car

It adds weight, cost and electrical complexity. Repairs require specialist knowledge.

Other terms