Shell launches E-Fluids to optimise electric vehicle performance

Shell has launched a new range of fluids specifically designed to work in battery electric vehicles (EVs). These E-Transmission Fluids, E-Thermal Fluids and E-Greases will make battery EVs perform better and be more efficient. This is part of Shell’s ongoing drive to support electric mobility and offer more and cleaner energy solutions for our customers.

As the leading global lubricants supplier for the past 12 years[1], Shell is continuing to explore how to serve the world’s increasing number of EV drivers, both on our forecourts and beyond. Shell has been working closely with automotive and component manufacturers to engineer these “first fill” fluids that effectively and efficiently meet a broad range of battery EV performance requirements. These products are targeted at the growing number of automotive manufacturers who are building EVs.

“Electric mobility is one of the solutions that will help meet growing demand for transport in a lower-carbon world.  From power generation, to charging and now with our new range of specialised E-Fluids, Shell is serving the needs of an increasing number of EV drivers,” said Huibert Vigeveno, Executive Vice President of Global Commercial at Shell. ”Shell Lubricants provide the ultimate protection no matter what car you drive.  Our new E-Fluids are the result of significant investment in R&D, partnering with car manufacturers around the world to improve vehicle performance, extend their range and increase their lifespans.”

Like regular vehicles, battery EVs still need fluids to operate. Current lubricants, which have been developed for internal combustion engines, generally fall short of meeting the performance requirements of high-tech EV powertrains[2]. Shell’s E-Fluids have been designed by specialised lubricant scientists based in Hamburg and Shanghai to optimise the performance of EVs and deal with these challenges. E-Fluids will help battery EVs reduce their lifecycle emissions and extend their lifespans due to their ultra-low viscosity properties which increase vehicles efficiency, and outstanding ageing properties which exceeds conventional oils. Shell has also produced a range of fluids, Shell Helix Hybrid, which are designed to work specifically with hybrid vehicles.

Electric vehicles are expected to play an increasingly important role in transporting people and products.  With the growth of EVs at currently 40-50% per year[3], and with the International Energy Agency anticipating that, by 2040, there may be 280 million EVs on the road, Shell E-Fluids cater for a growing need among consumers and automotive manufactures to improve and protect their vehicles.

One of Shell’s partners is Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, the Indian multinational car manufacturer.   Hemant Sikka, President – CPO, Powerol & Spares Business of Mahindra said: “Like many other countries, India is currently undergoing a transformation of the electric vehicle industry and at Mahindra, we have been at the forefront of this movement. Through the partnership with Shell, this brings together two leaders with strong technology capabilities and shared passion for providing a great driving experience for our customers and a sustainable future of generations to come. The launch of Shell E-Fluids and E-Greases is a necessary step towards strengthening the electric mobility segment by enhancing the performance and life-span of electric vehicles. We are convinced that such initiatives will help drive forward the future of mobility”.