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Why do cars need turbos?

To increase engine power and efficiency.

A turbocharger (or turbo for short) is a device that uses the exhaust gases from an internal combustion engine to drive a compressor that pressurizes the incoming air before it enters the engine's cylinders. This increased air pressure allows more fuel to be burned in each cylinder, which results in more power.

Turbos can also improve fuel efficiency by reducing the amount of fuel that is needed to produce a given amount of power. This is because the turbo allows the engine to run at a lower speed while still producing the same amount of power, which reduces the amount of fuel that is burned.

In addition to increasing power and efficiency, turbos can also help to reduce emissions by burning fuel more completely. This is because the higher pressure air in the cylinders allows for a more efficient combustion process, which results in fewer unburned hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide being released into the atmosphere.

Turbos are not without their drawbacks, however. They can be expensive to purchase and install, and they can also add complexity to an engine, which can make it more difficult to maintain. Additionally, turbos can cause a slight delay in acceleration, as it takes time for the turbo to spool up and start providing boost pressure.

Overall, turbos can offer a significant boost in power and efficiency for internal combustion engines, but it is important to weigh the costs and benefits carefully before deciding whether or not to add a turbo to a particular engine.