The global automotive industry is undergoing a historic transformation as electric vehicles (EVs) rapidly gain market share. This shift is not only reshaping consumer behavior but also influencing the demand for lubricants and lubricant additives. While it is true that EVs have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, the need for advanced fluids and additive technologies remains critical. Instead of reducing the importance of additives, the transition to EVs is opening new areas of innovation and opportunity.
Electric vehicles eliminate traditional combustion engines, but they introduce new challenges in thermal management, component durability, and efficiency. EVs rely heavily on e-axle fluids, transmission lubricants, and cooling fluids that must operate under high torque and high-speed conditions.
Without proper lubrication and additive support, gears, bearings, and power electronics can suffer from wear, energy loss, and overheating. This is where friction modifiers and anti-wear additives are indispensable. By reducing metal-to-metal contact and minimizing resistance, these additives help extend the lifespan of EV drivetrains and improve overall energy efficiency.
Although EV sales are increasing, a large portion of the global vehicle fleet will remain hybrid or combustion-based for the foreseeable future. In these vehicles, conventional additives such as:
TBN booster: Neutralizes acids and enhances oil alkalinity for extended drain intervals.
ZDDP (zinc dialkyldithiophosphate): Provides anti-wear protection and oxidation stability.
Dispersants: Keep contaminants and sludge in suspension, preventing deposits.
Antioxidant additives: Slow down the degradation of base oils under high temperatures.
These additives are still the backbone of engine oil formulations. Hybrid vehicles, in particular, operate under unique conditions—frequent start-stop cycles and higher thermal loads—that require a balanced additive package for protection and efficiency.
While EVs do not require engine oil in the traditional sense, they still demand high-performance fluids designed for:
Thermal conductivity and cooling: To regulate battery and inverter temperature.
Electrical compatibility: Fluids must prevent electrical discharge while ensuring safe operation.
Extreme pressure resistance: High torque in EV gearboxes requires robust friction modifiers and anti-wear agents.
Oxidation resistance: Prevents oil breakdown and ensures long-term stability under elevated temperatures.
This creates a new market for specialized lubricant additives designed specifically for e-mobility applications.
Sustainability is at the core of automotive development. Governments worldwide are introducing stricter environmental policies, requiring the use of low-sulfur, low-ash, and eco-friendly lubricant additives. For EV fluids, this means formulations must not only perform well but also align with environmental and recycling standards.
In addition, OEMs are demanding longer-lasting fluids that can survive the lifetime of the vehicle. This trend increases the importance of high-quality dispersants, antioxidants, and ashless additives that reduce waste and environmental impact.
According to industry forecasts, the global lubricant market for EVs will grow steadily over the next decade. By 2030, demand for specialized EV fluids could account for over 20% of the total lubricants sector. Companies that provide innovative additive solutions—such as friction modifiers, TBN boosters, ZDDP replacements, and advanced dispersants—are expected to capture significant market share.
At the same time, emerging markets will continue to rely on ICE and hybrid vehicles, ensuring ongoing demand for conventional additive chemistries. This dual demand creates a unique opportunity for manufacturers who can balance traditional and EV-focused additive development.
To stay competitive in this evolving landscape, lubricant additive producers should:
Invest in EV research and development – Focus on additives that improve thermal stability, electrical insulation, and gear protection.
Offer hybrid-ready solutions – Continue improving conventional packages with TBN boosters, ZDDP, dispersants, and antioxidant additives.
Promote sustainability – Highlight eco-friendly formulations that comply with international regulations.
Collaborate with OEMs – Work directly with automotive manufacturers to tailor additive packages for new vehicle designs.
The rise of electric vehicles does not signal the end of lubricants but rather the start of a new chapter. Lubricant additives remain central to the performance, safety, and sustainability of modern mobility. From friction modifiers in EV drivetrains to TBN boosters and ZDDP in hybrid engines, additives continue to protect vital components and extend service life.
As the industry evolves, companies that innovate in both traditional and EV-focused additive technologies will build long-term competitiveness. The message is clear: lubricant additives are not disappearing—they are transforming to meet the future of mobility.
