hi guys, could you explain what launch control and anti lag is and the benefits and downfalls of them? as ive been hearing about them both but not quite sure as to what they do!!

 

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As simply as possible, anti-lag will allow your turbo to develop positive boost while not moving - something that won't normally happen, with the result that standing starts, especially on a big turbo, should be quicker.

Anti-lag, as it sounds, aims to keep the turbo spooled during gearchanges, minimising or reducing the amount of time taken for the inlet tract to re-pressurise after you get back on the throttle.

The downsides of both vary with the methods used to achieve them, and the amount of each used. Using LC to make more of standing starts will obviously increase loads and stresses throughout the car, especially on the clutch and transmission. Effective ALS, just like LC, will increase heat and stress through the engine, and particularly on the exhaust valves, exhaust manifold and turbo.

Under most circumstances you'll need an aftermarket ECU to do either properly - although on a roadcar, there's no real need.