Mercedes-Benz is to phase out its supercharged petrol engines, badged Kompressor, in favour of turbocharging, according to Automotive News Europe. The new A-Class range, on sale this autumn, will include a 2.0-litre turbo unit, and this engine will then be fitted in other line-ups. The M-B and Maybach V12 petrol engine is turbocharged, too.
Engine development head Juergen Frey told ANE that "turbochargers are superior to superchargers in terms of noise and cost. When we introduced the supercharged engines it was the right decision. Turbocharging has greatly improved in the meantime, and we have virtually no turbo lag any more."
ANE reports that turbocharging is making a comeback, as when combined with a smaller engine, it can reduce overall fuel consumption and help the manufacturers meet increasingly stringent emissions legislation. Some 40 percent of petrol-engined cars sold in Europe are expected to be turbocharged by 2008.
Engine development head Juergen Frey told ANE that "turbochargers are superior to superchargers in terms of noise and cost. When we introduced the supercharged engines it was the right decision. Turbocharging has greatly improved in the meantime, and we have virtually no turbo lag any more."
ANE reports that turbocharging is making a comeback, as when combined with a smaller engine, it can reduce overall fuel consumption and help the manufacturers meet increasingly stringent emissions legislation. Some 40 percent of petrol-engined cars sold in Europe are expected to be turbocharged by 2008.
