The automotive world is changing – quickly. The surge in electric vehicles (EV’s) is altering one of the largest paradigm shifts for that industry in over a century; with electric drivetrains coming to fruition we have reached a critical juncture where the ICE is basically eliminated. The re-evaluation of lubricants will change drastically as well but what does this really mean for drivers, manufacturers, and the lubricants industry? 

To be clear, while demand is shifting to e-fluids, hybrid fluids, etc. for those internal engines whether combustion or diesel will remain a critical requirement in performance or motorsport applications. That is why the best racing oil in UAE is being developed in consideration of electric drivetrains to deliver optimum performance to both a legacy combustion engine and on next-gen electric powertrains.

While EVs don’t require traditional engine oil, they still rely on specialized fluids to function efficiently and last longer. Key components like the gearbox, e-motor bearings, and thermal management systems still demand effective lubrication.

These fluids help:

• Reduce friction and wear — one of the key ingredients and the role of lubricant in maintaining mechanical efficiency.
  
• Improve energy efficiency
  
• Regulate heat
  
• Minimize corrosion
  
• Enhance durability under high loads and temperatures
  

So, while the best racing oil in UAE may no longer serve an electric drivetrain the way it would in a supercharged V8, there’s still a strong demand for purpose-built lubricants that meet the technical needs of high-performance EV components. Understanding the key ingredients and the role of lubricant is essential in ensuring long-term performance, even in an electrified world.

From Motor Oil to E-Fluid: The Shift in Lubricant Applications

Traditional vehicles use engine oil, gear oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and more. In contrast, EVs simplify the equation but require multi-functional fluids engineered to handle both lubrication and cooling. These e-fluids are exposed to electrical currents, making dielectric properties crucial—something conventional oils were never designed to manage.

Manufacturers are now developing specialized fluids that:

• Maintain low viscosity at high speeds
  
• Are electrically non-conductive
  
• Resist oxidation under extreme heat
  
• Offer compatibility with modern polymers and metals
  

These are some of the key ingredients and the role of lubricant in an electric vehicle—proof that while the use case may differ, the science of lubrication remains central to performance.

What This Means for Car Owners

If you’re driving an EV or planning to switch to one, you’ll still need to pay attention to fluid maintenance, even if it’s far less frequent than oil changes in an ICE vehicle.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Cooling Systems: EVs rely heavily on liquid cooling. Over time, the coolant may degrade and need replacement to prevent battery overheating.
  
• Gearbox Lubrication: Single-speed gearboxes still require lubrication to reduce wear and noise.
  
• Brake Fluids: Regenerative braking reduces wear but doesn’t eliminate the need for hydraulic brake maintenance.
  

Understanding the right fluid types and their intervals can help prolong your EV’s lifespan and performance.

Lubricants and High-Performance EVs: A Growing Niche

EVs aren’t just eco-friendly—they’re fast. Brands like Tesla, Porsche, and Rimac are proving that electric vehicles can outperform traditional sports cars. This has sparked innovation in racing-grade lubricants tailored for EVs.

If you’re a performance enthusiast or involved in motorsports, you’ll be glad to know that the market for best racing oil in UAE is also adapting to these trends. New formulas are being developed to cater to electric race cars—blending heat resistance, low friction, and electrical insulation into a single high-tech package.

6 Things to Check on Your Oil Label Before Buying (Even for EVs)

Whether you’re shopping for a hybrid or looking to maintain a gearbox in your EV, being oil-aware still matters. Here are 6 things to check on your oil label before buying any lubricant:

1. Viscosity Grade – Ensure it’s suited for your specific vehicle’s requirements.
   
2. Manufacturer Approval – Always go for fluids approved or recommended by your car’s OEM.
   
3. Additive Technology – Look for additives that offer anti-wear, corrosion protection, and thermal stability.
   
4. Dielectric Strength – For EVs, this is essential to prevent electrical current flow through fluids.
   
5. Base Oil Type – Synthetic oils tend to perform better under stress and temperature variations.
   
6. Environmental Compliance – Check for eco-friendly or biodegradable certifications.
   

These checks are essential not only for ICE vehicles but also for maintaining the performance and safety of EVs.

Conclusion

While electric vehicles do not actually use conventional engine oils, electric vehicles are still dependent on specially formulated lubricants that promote maximum performance, cooling, and protection. From advanced gear oils to thermal management fluids, the important ingredients and role of lubricant remain important – just more advanced and specific.

If you would like more information about electric fluid lubricants or if you need expert advice for selecting the right electric product, call General Petroleum now!