The development and introduction of the automotive turbocharger: a case of innovation in response to fuel economy regulation. Final report, April-December 1978

This case study examines the evolution of the turbocharger from its invention in 1905 by Dr. A. J. Buechi, to its use on passenger cars in the late seventies. The case makes a number of points. The market for turbochargers has changed over time. In the fifties, suppliers developed a commercial turbocharger for compact, light, high-speed diesel engines which found a large and growing market. Application to the automotive field was slow in coming. Turbochargers found use in competitive racing. Aside from a brief period in the early sixties, the automobile industry did not seriously consider turbochargers for passenger cars until the mid-seventies. Down-sizing and the attendant reduction in engine horsepower in response to the mandated fuel economy standards have created a market for turbochargers. Suppliers played an important role in the success of this innovation.