Fiat has been boosted by a new optimally tuned turbocharger designed by Borgwarner for a 1.8litre petrol direct-injection engine.
The design provides excellent response in the lower engine speed range with the engine able to achieve a maximum torque of 320Nm at 1,400rpm. As there is no need for a mechanical compressor the result is a less expensive and less complex design that allows for a fuel economy boost without reducing pull-away dynamics.
So how has this been achieved?
Well, BorgWarner uses an innovative welding technology that fixes the cast manifold directly to the turbine housing. This in turn allows each to be optimised separately.
The housing is made of a temperature resistant alloy while the manifold can be produced with a less costly alloy. It also uses an optimised turbo with boost pressure control valve that is less expensive and complex and adds to the boost in fuel economy.
The engine originally made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show and is available in the Lancia Delta and Alfa Romeo 159. As a result the Delta is able to achieve 30mpg, while the 159 can achieve 29mpg.
