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  1. HOME
  2. PRODUCTS
  3. CAR AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
  4. HYBRID (HEV)
  5. CHALLENGES FACED BY HYBRIDS

CHALLENGES FACED BY HYBRIDS

THE THREE MAIN CHALLENGES FACED BY HYBRIDS

The switch between the internal combustion engine (ICE) and battery-powered motor challenges engine oil in several ways:

 

Increased oil contamination due to cooler engine temperatures

Switching between an electric motor and ICE causes hybrid engines to run cooler, leading to water and fuel build-up in the oil. This can disrupt some oils and cause engine deterioration.

 

Reduced performance and protection from engine intermittency

Hybrids repeatedly switch between the electric motor and ICE. In some hybrids,  the engine can also ramp up to high engine speeds quickly. Some oils can’t keep up, reducing engine performance and protection.

 

Reduction in system efficiency due to cooler running and lower oil temperature

The ICE in a hybrid powertrain recharges the battery that powers the electric motor. Cooler running and lower oil temperature can lead to reduced engine efficiency and in turn, poorer fuel efficiency and charging of the battery.

Engine oil must perform across all three areas to help optimise performance. 
Find out more about Castrol’s hybrid performance standard

DISCOVER OUR HYBRID PERFORMANCE STANDARD

Castrol’s HYSPEC standard enables us to prove that our oils perform against the three key challenges faced by hybrids.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT ENGINE OIL FOR HYBRIDS

The right lubricant can make all the difference in dealing with the challenges of hybrids. Find the right oil for your hybrid here.

LISTEN TO THE CASTROL HYBRID PODCAST

Castrol brings together industry experts to take a closer look at how far we’ve come in the world of hybrids.
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THE limits of hybrid technology

See how we help set the stage for success for our motorsport partners BWT Alpine F1® Team and Ford M-Sport WRC.

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