OK I thought I was well versed...when did that happen? Thats cool as hell!
I think it was back in the 60s or 70s.
The turbine coupled to the back of a quick change differential, and it acted like a mega power boost for short bursts.
Apparently the history was mixed success:
http://objetpart.blogspot.com/2010/02/part-of-day-turbonique-rocket-drag-axle.html