Hybrid powertrains present new technical challenges for engine oils due to frequent start-stop cycles, cold starts and varying load profiles. MANNOL is responding to this development with specially formulated engine oils that meet the requirements of modern hybrid vehicles, thereby contributing to the engine’s efficiency, protection and longevity.
- Hybrid powertrains present new technical challenges for engine oils.
- Frequent start-stop cycles and varying operating conditions place greater demands on lubrication and wear protection.
- Fuel carry-over, condensation and thermal stresses call for high-performance additive technologies.
- MANNOL continues to develop engine oils specifically tailored to the requirements of modern hybrid powertrains.
Hybrid meets conventional technology
The increasing prevalence of hybrid powertrains presents new challenges not only for powertrain technology but also for lubricant development. Whilst conventional internal combustion engines operate under largely continuous thermal and mechanical load profiles, hybrid operation is characterised by highly dynamic load changes, frequent cold starts and prolonged periods of low oil temperatures. For engine oil, this means a significant shift in performance requirements, with direct implications for wear protection, ageing stability and efficiency.
Start-stop operation presents new challenges for engine oil
The key factor here is the high frequency of start-stop cycles in the internal combustion engine. Unlike in conventional powertrains, the engine in a hybrid vehicle often runs only intermittently, sometimes under unfavourable temperature conditions. This requires excellent low-temperature properties and the rapid formation of a stable lubricating film immediately after start-up. At the same time, there is an increased risk of fuel ingress and condensation forming in the oil, which alters the viscosity and promotes corrosive processes. Modern engine oils must therefore incorporate optimised additive technologies that compensate for the effects of water and fuel whilst simultaneously preventing deposits.
Another important aspect is the precise control of the internal combustion engine in the hybrid powertrain. The system ensures that the engine operates primarily within particularly efficient operating ranges in order to save fuel. However, this can lead to higher local temperatures, which place greater strain on the engine oil. It must therefore retain its properties over the long term, even under high thermal stress, and resist oxidation. At the same time, minimising friction is crucial, as even small gains in efficiency can noticeably reduce the fuel consumption of the entire system.
Konstantin Gaab, Managing Director of MANNOL/SCT Germany: “Even under high-stress conditions, such as during a sudden overtaking manoeuvre or rapid acceleration, the engine must deliver its maximum power within a very short time. In such cases, the engine is often not yet within its optimum operating temperature range, but is virtually cold. Under these conditions, the engine oil must immediately form a reliable lubricating film whilst simultaneously meeting the increased demands for wear protection, friction minimisation and thermal stability. These specific operating profiles clearly demonstrate that hybrid powertrains place specific demands on modern engine oils.”
Electrical components expand the range of requirements
In certain hybrid architectures, electric motors and power electronics are used in close proximity to the internal combustion engine. This places additional demands on the oil’s material compatibility and, potentially, on its electrical properties, for example with regard to its interaction with electrically active components.
Against this backdrop, MANNOL is continuously refining its engine oils and tailoring formulations specifically to the requirements of modern hybrid powertrains. High-quality base oils and high-performance additive technologies ensure rapid lubricant film formation, high oxidation stability and effective protection against wear, deposits and corrosion. Products specifically designed for hybrid vehicles thus make an important contribution to efficiency, operational reliability and a long engine service life – both in everyday use and under demanding operating conditions.
About Sudheimer Car Technik-Vertriebs GmbH
MANNOL is a successful lubricant brand under the umbrella of the international SCT Group. The range comprises more than 500 products, spanning from engine and gearbox oils, through operating fluids and car care products, to specialised lubricant solutions for industry. Since its foundation in 1993 by Juri Sudheimer, MANNOL and SCT have stood for innovation, quality and value for money. The SCT Group covers the entire value chain – from research and development through to production and bottling, right through to global logistics. MANNOL products are distributed globally and are now available in over 130 countries worldwide.
These media outlets have reported on this:
