In this economic world, no way is left with automakers except grabbing the attention of high speed performers with burst of extra power. One of such technology is ‘Overboost’ that offers extra power all through peak acceleration by using the turbocharger of the car. Ford Focus ST is one of the cars that are packed with thrilling speed performance to approach the customers and most importantly pleasure with the gas pump. Overboost is inserted in the car to enhance mid rpm range, which in turn increases the acceleration.
Image Source: motorward.com
2013 Ford Focus ST has striking features even if we not include Overboost feature. No one can say that Focus ST is dependent barely on ‘Overboost’. The other exciting features are 2.0-liter direct-injected and turbocharged inline-four that renders 270 lb-ft of torque and 252 horsepower for high energy performance. The standard measure of the torque strikes at the highest point of 270 lb-ft at 2,500 rpm which can sink to 250 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm when the speed is decreased. The maximum peak point of the torque is raised to 4,500 rpm from 3,000 rpm with the help of Overboost. The increase in the peak point of torque is the resultant addition of 7.4 percent.
The gain in torque is the consequence of engine computer, cooling system and turbocharger engine that are being adapted to fulfill the needs of Overboost feature and attract the buyers. Turbochargers are known to add maximum of twice atmospheric pressure but in case of Overboost feature the range is increased. Thus, if the Overboost feature is supported for longer time then the issues like durability, mileage and fuel economy may become worse. This is the reason due to which automakers restrict the boosting feature for maximum of 15 seconds in between, especially for speed lovers. If the Overboost feature would be left for longer time, then it may overheat the engine.
The price of the 2013 Ford Focus ST will start from $24,995. The Marketing Manager of Ford Focus ST claims that the turbo boost feature is restricted for short time span only to maintain the safety and durability of the car. More acceleration is jerked particularly for performance-hungry drivers. Ford is not only the one that is willing to adopt Overboost feature, but there are also some other automakers offering this feature namely Nissan GT-R with variety of Mini models, the Fiat Abarth; as well as Z4 sDrive35is and BMW 3-Series models. Honeywell Transportation Systems, the maker of devices expects around 75% of upcoming cars equipped with turbochargers or other parallel devices almost by 2025.
Overboost feature is pushing two revolutions to enter in the car industry. First is the increasing use of turbochargers, the pumps that are driving engine exhaust to compel more fuel mixture and air into the cylinder of the engine. Second one is the engine management computers that intellect the requirement of the driver i.e. whether he want to ride like a cat or a lion. These two analysis of future needs will lead to gas-gulping engine and more gas-thrifty power plant.
Performance Of Ford Focus ST Video from YouTube: