1976 Banks Prototypes Volvo’s First Turbo
Volvo and the Rise of Turbocharged Cars: A Match Made in Necessity
The 1970s oil crisis forced a change in the American car. Big engines, once desired for their power, became gas-guzzling burdens. Small engines, while fuel-efficient, lacked the thrill. Enter Volvo and turbocharging. Volvo partnered with a small California race shop, Banks, to create the first turbocharged engine for a computer-controlled car. This innovation debuted in the 1980 Volvo 240 Turbo, offering both fuel economy and a “kick” of power. Volvo’s success with turbocharging paved the way for its widespread adoption in the auto industry, forever changing the landscape of performance.
May 21, 2020
