Stellantis has registered a patent for a new device that could replace standard turbine coolers - intercoolers. The device is called Ranque-Hilsch, or vortex cooler. Thanks to it, the air flow is divided into cold, which goes to the engine, and hot, which goes to heat the windows and the passenger compartment.
The main advantages of the new technology are no liquids and compactness. The diameter of the cooler is 10 cm, the length is only 30, which is much smaller than that of a classic intercooler. Another plus, relevant for residents of the northern regions, is the rapid heating of the cabin.
The efficiency of this system is less than that of a conventional refrigerant cooler, but the simplicity of the design and compactness are much more financially advantageous. The patent was registered in France, which indicates the participation of Citroen and Peugeot in the development. If the technology becomes widespread, it could greatly affect the market and make turbocharged engines much more affordable.