Lamborghini Says No To Turbocharging

Turbocharging is an excellent way to extract maximum performance and efficiency from any engine, but is particularly relevant with diesel engines, small petrol engines and in performance applications.

BMW has recently taken turbo technology to new heights for a mainstream performance vehicle (the Veyron has four turbos) with the introduction of its triple-turbo diesel models.

Porsche is also rumoured to be working on a triple-turbo version of its flagship 911 Turbo, with improved low-end response, more power and torque and improved efficiency being claimed, or so we hear.

Bucking the trend is Lamborghini, that slightly nuts, Italian purveyor of cubic inches (VW’s stewardship has improved the shut-lines without cutting back on the craziness).

In an interview with Autocar, the Italian supercar makers CEO Stephan Winkelmann confirmed that turbos weren’t on Lamborghini’s ‘To-Do’ list at the moment.

"For the time being it will not happen. For this decade, I don’t see it happening in the super sport car business – although I would also caution against saying it could never happen," said Winkelmann

He didn’t close the door on a turbo Lamborghini completely however, conceding that future regulations may leave Lamborghini little choice in the matter.

“The future can take its own path when fuel regulations are involved. All I will say is that any development along those lines must be consistent with the DNA of Lamborghini," he added.

For the time being however, the all-new Gallardo which is still at least a couple of years away, will be naturally-aspirated when it is launched.