Do electric vehicles need motor oil?
1. Pure electric vehicles (EVs) do not require traditional motor oil.
Pure electric vehicles do not have fuel engines, so there is no need to replace traditional motor oil, oil filters, and other engine-related maintenance items.
Their power systems consist of batteries, motors, and electronic controls, and lubrication requirements are concentrated in the following component.
Reduction gearbox/gearbox
Specialized transmission oil must be used to meet the lubrication and cooling requirements under high-speed (up to 20,000 RPM) and high-temperature conditions, while also possessing anti-oxidant and anti-foaming properties.
For example, Sinopec Great Wall Lubricants' EROS40 transmission oil has been adopted by mainstream new energy vehicle models both domestically and internationally.
Motor bearings
High-temperature resistant and highly insulating grease should be replaced regularly (recommended every 2 years or 40,000 kilometers) to prevent electrical corrosion and bearing burnout.
Other system
Brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, etc., should still be replaced according to the manual.
2. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) must balance internal combustion engine and electric drive system
Hybrid vehicles incorporate both an engine and a motor, therefore:
Engine component: Regular oil changes are still required, but frequent start-stop cycles may demand higher wear resistance from the oil.
Electric drive system: Specialized products such as transmission oil and grease used in pure electric vehicles must be employed.
3. Core requirements for lubricant selection
Specialized lubricants for new energy vehicles must meet the following criteria:
High-temperature stability: withstand the instantaneous high temperatures generated by the motor's high RPM.
Insulation performance: prevent short circuits caused by conductive impurities.
Low viscosity and long service life: reduce energy consumption and extend oil change intervals (e.g., some transmission oils have an oil change interval of up to 40,000 kilometers).
Compatibility: Compatible with rubber and sealing materials to prevent corrosion.
4. Maintenance Recommendation
Regular inspections: Monitor the condition of transmission fluid (metal wear indicators, viscosity changes).
Proper operation: Avoid mixing with traditional lubricants; motor grease must be applied using specialized tool.
Follow the manual: Different vehicle brands have significant variations in lubricant specifications; always refer to the official maintenance guidelines.
Summary
Electric vehicles do not require traditional engine oil but must use specialized products such as transmission oil and grease; hybrid vehicles require both engine oil and specialized fluids for the electric drive system. Selecting the appropriate lubricants and performing regular maintenance are critical to ensuring the performance and longevity of new energy vehicle.