Improved energy efficiency and lower CO2 emissions are the two major
drivers for the emergence of E-mobility. Growth of electric vehicles (EVs) has
sustained ever since their introduction till 2020 and has substantially
increased thereafter. EVs require specialized lubricants, which are different
from conventional lubricants mainly due to the addition of new hardware
technology including e-motor, inverter, battery, and new materials (copper
windings, elastomers, plastic, and other materials). Lubricant when used in an
advanced powertrain electric vehicle specifically in E-powertrains may encounter
the e-motor and must deliver unique performance attributes such as optimal
electrical properties, thermal management, and material compatibility apart from
the traditional features including extreme pressure, friction performance,
oxidation, and wear control. In the current study, we have investigated
conventional GL5, manual transmission fluid (MTF), automatic transmission fluid
(ATF), and dedicated e-fluids to understand additive and viscosity effects on
aforesaid performance traits. Our study emphasized that additive chemistry plays
a significant role on key properties such as electrical properties, corrosion
resistance, oxidation resistance, and tribological performance.