Audi V-6 Diesel: Zero Turbo Lag with Mild-Hybrid System and Electric Compressor

This engine, debuting in the A6 and Q5, incorporates a Mild-Hybrid system and an electric compressor to eliminate turbo lag and improve low-end response.

The diesel engine is experiencing a decline in Europe, with its market share plunging to just eight percent. Despite this, Audi is not ready to retire the TDI.

The new 3.0-liter V-6 diesel pairs a mild-hybrid (MHEV) system with an electrically powered compressor. In fact, this is the first time the 48-volt MHEV hardware works in tandem with an electrically driven compressor.

Operation and Elimination of Turbo Lag

The electric compressor is mounted behind the turbocharger and intercooler in the intake path. When the driver floors the accelerator, the intake air is routed to the electrically powered compressor, especially when the turbocharger has little energy to work with.

The air, which was already compressed by the exhaust-driven turbo, is squeezed even further before entering the combustion chamber. The direct result is more torque at low rpm and virtually zero turbo lag.

Performance and Efficiency on the Road

The 3.0-liter V-6 engine generates 295 hp and 580 Nm. The electric compressor spins 40 percent faster, hitting 90,000 rpm in just 250 milliseconds. When pulling away, the mild-hybrid system temporarily adds an extra 24 hp and 230 Nm.

Regarding performance, an Audi A6 Sedan equipped with this engine sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.2 seconds. The Q5, a bit heavier, is actually quicker, hitting 0 to 100 km/h in five seconds flat.

Sustainability and the Future of the TDI

Audi has improved the durability and efficiency of the engine, which is identified with the code “EA897evo4”. Furthermore, this latest V-6 can run on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), which reduces COâ‚‚ emissions by up to 95 percent compared to conventional diesel.

The engine will debut in the A6 and Q5. Finally, the Q7 and the even larger Q9, which are set to launch next year, are also expected to receive the updated V-6 diesel.