Ferrari has patented a new four-cylinder engine with an electric supercharger-like add-on with the European Patent Organization. No single mass-produced Ferrari vehicle has had an engine like this before.
The electric add-on is essentially a turbine which is built into the exhaust system, but functions as a generator rather than compressor. The generator produces energy and stores it in a battery which then powers the turbocharger and the electric main engine.
In what ways does this technology enhance the engine design? The answer is simple: it eliminates the turbo lag and gives the vehicle a powerful new “voice”. According to some representatives of the brand, the sound will vary depending on the current generator workload.
It is still unknown which Ferrari models will get the new engine. The company’s current offer is limited to V8 and V12 vehicles. It is possible, though, that the new engine will ship with the Ferrari Dino series – or another brand altogether, such as Maserati or Alfa Romeo.
Photo: Ferrari