General Motors has developed a supercharged version of its 3800 V-6 engine. It utilizes a Roots type supercharger mounted in the Vee of the engine, attached directly to the intake manifold.
This engine provides increased performance with an excellent balance of fuel economy, as well as a high level of pleasability and reliability. The objective was to achieve the character of a larger, eight cylinder, engine while maintaining the fuel efficiency of a six cylinder. This would provide an engine well suited to market and environmental needs.
Various methods of boosting, structural development of the engine, and control systems considerations, were evaluated. Final designs were selected based on total system quality, reliability and simplicity.
This paper outlines the evaluation, selection and development of this new powertrain and technology.