Method for driving a turbocharger

The method involves using an electrical machine (11a) connected to a rotating shaft of the turbocharger to produce electrical energy as a motor to drive the shaft depending on defined first operating parameters of the engine (1) and to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy as a generator depending on second engine operating parameters. Electrical energy converted by the electrical machine is used to control and/or regulate the control actuators of an electromagnetic valve drive (2a'-2d') of the engine.