Unlike traditional gasoline engines, modern electric vehicles and power tools are not powered by combustion. Instead, they are powered by an electric motor that converts electrical energy stored in a battery into mechanical energy.

  Electromagnetic fields drive the internal components of the electric motor to rotate at high speed, thereby generating power. Because this process is almost instantaneous, the driver will not feel torque or acceleration lag as in a traditional gasoline engine. Furthermore, since friction is no longer needed to propel the vehicle, the electric motor does not require traditional engine oil. However, electric vehicles still require lubrication.

  Although electric vehicles do not use oil in the traditional sense, they still require lubricants, greases, and functional fluids to extend their lifespan, regulate temperature, and improve handling. Many of these lubricants need to meet the new requirements of electric vehicles, and they are either new products on the market or still under development.

  ● Transmission/Reduction Gear

  ● Central Door Lock and Other Sensor Motors

  ● Roller Bearings

  ● Air conditioning components

  ● Wheel hub bearings

  ● ABS/ESP

 

 As electric vehicles continue to advance, their lubricants and greases will become increasingly specialized to meet the unique challenges of high-pressure and extreme-temperature environments. These fluids must minimize the accumulation of static charge, protect components from corrosion, and isolate high-voltage wiring from the chassis.

 Unlike gasoline-powered cars that use multi-speed transmissions, most electric vehicles use single-speed transmissions and reducers, which subject them to greater thermal and physical stresses at high speeds. Using high-performance, high-temperature resistant transmission fluid helps maintain the optimal performance of electric vehicles.

 In addition to the transmission, the electric motor, central locking system, and motor bearings of electric vehicles also require lubrication to extend their service life, withstand harsh environments and high temperatures, prevent corrosion, provide oxidation stability, and reduce noise. The compatibility of these greases with various metals, such as copper and polymer cable sheaths, is crucial.

 Battery health is of paramount importance. Because rapid charging and discharging of batteries generates heat, electric vehicle batteries require a special coolant made from G-48 ethylene glycol. This coolant is specially designed to maintain the battery temperature between 59 ℃ to 95 ℃ Fahrenheit.

  As research into fluids specifically designed for electric motors and speed reducers (equivalent to transmissions) continues to deepen, several factors need to be optimized.

  • Viscosity at operating temperature – Cold environments of 10°F to 20°F typically require NLGI 1, while warmer environments require NLGI 2 or NLGI 3.

  • Fluid density – The mass of a fluid per unit volume. Fluid density is crucial for substances like battery coolants where weight reduction is paramount.

  • Thermal conductivity – The ease with which heat is transferred between fluid molecules. Electric vehicles need to dissipate heat generated by the reducer without conducting electricity.

  • Heat capacity – The energy required to change the temperature of a unit mass of object. A higher heat capacity means a greater ability to absorb heat.

  • Electrical insulation – Depending on the application, additives may be conductive or insulating. Electric motors must be insulated from their surroundings, while certain electrical connections require conductive additives.

 
  With the continuous development of electric vehicle technology, the demand for specialized electric vehicle lubricants will increase daily. If you have any questions about electric vehicle oils, greases, and coolants, please contact FRTLUBE . With over 20 years of experience in high-quality lubrication products, we are a recognized industry leader in quality-oriented oils, lubricants, greases, and specialty lubricants .