Turboladung

Turboladung, or turbocharging, is a form of forced induction in internal combustion engines that uses energy from exhaust gases to drive a turbine-connected compressor. The compressed intake air increases the amount of oxygen available for combustion, allowing more fuel to be burned and, thus, more power without increasing engine displacement. Modern systems balance power, efficiency, and emissions through controlled boost.

Key components are the exhaust-driven turbine, the air-side compressor, an intercooler to cool compressed air, and a boost-control device such as a wastegate or variable-geometry mechanism. Exhaust gas spins the turbine; the shaft drives the compressor, which draws in ambient air and increases its pressure before entering the engine. The intercooler raises air density, and the engine control unit modulates boost with sensors and fuel-timing adjustments.

Configurations include a single turbo, twin-turbo setups (parallel or sequential), and modern electric-assisted or variable-geometry turbos to reduce lag and improve response. Turboladung is common in petrol and diesel engines across passenger cars, trucks, and marine applications, as well as in historical aircraft engines.

Originating in the early 20th century, the turbocharger concept was advanced by Alfred Büchi, with early aerospace use and later widespread adoption in production cars from the 1960s onward. Today turbocharging enables downsized engines with higher specific output and lower fuel consumption, aided by advances in materials, cooling, and electronics.