By Steve Temple

Why not have your cake and eat it too? The late, great comedian George Carlin puzzled over this expression, wondering why can’t you eat the cake that you already have. No matter, as he never experienced the new E-Charger system, which boosts engine output while maintaining, or even improving fuel efficiency, and lowering emissions.

According to inventor Johnathan Goodwin, this setup can increase power by up to 150 lb-ft of torque without sacrificing fuel economy. And according to SEMA smog testing, the installation proved a staggering 47 percent decrease at the tailpipe. He says the technology is able to mount onto any engine application (either gas or diesel), allowing every vehicle owner to enjoy the benefits of guilt-free performance. That is, enhancing your driving experience without adding pollution or fuel consumption.

How does the system combine all these normally contradictory elements? The E-Charger system was a byproduct of a build that Johnathan did back in 2007 for musician Neil Young, converting his car to a series hybrid electric. From there, Johnathan developed a simple method for bolting on hybrid capabilities without having to buy a hybrid car. The system Johnathan developed has just three components: motor, controller and battery pack, along with the necessary wiring.  

The E-Charger applies stored energy via an electric motor to assist either an internal combustion or a compression-ignition (diesel) engine when extra power is needed. The electric motor is connected to the crankshaft via 1:1 cog-belt drive, taking load off the engine, thus scavenging power and lessening emissions.

Included with the system is a 10 kW lithium-ion phosphate battery pack that can be replenished by regenerative charging. During braking or off-throttle events, the motor turns into a generator and puts energy into the batteries where it can be used later during acceleration. In addition, the system has a 3 kW battery charger that can be plugged into a household outlet or a standard EV charging station.

It all sounds great in theory, but we haven’t yet had a chance to drive a vehicle equipped with the E-Charger, so stay tuned for some firsthand impressions of this new upgrade.

E-Charger

www.echargersystem.com