Lubricant evolution: How lubricants are meeting the challenges of modern engine technology

Engine oil remains one of the most crucial, yet often overlooked, components of modern engines. Today’s lubricants are highly advanced, consisting of carefully formulated base oils combined with a precise mix of chemical additives. These additives define the characteristics of different motor oils. With the rapid advancements in engine technology, the days of using a one-size-fits-all approach for engine oil are long gone. The assumption that any car over 15 years old can run on a single type of engine oil is increasingly risky. While some smaller workshops may still follow this approach, more vehicles today require OEM-approved oils tailored to their specific needs. 

The role of modern engine oil has expanded. Initially, its primary functions were to protect engine parts from wear and deposits, lubricate components for smooth operation, and dissipate residual heat from combustion. However, new demands have emerged in recent years, including the need to help contribute to fuel efficiency and reduce harmful emissions.

The push for lower fuel consumption and emissions has been ongoing for decades, with the European Union (EU) at the forefront of enforcing stricter targets. By 2021, the EU mandated that the average car fleet emits no more than 95 grams of CO₂ per kilometre. Moving forward, stricter regulations are in place; fuel consumption must be cut by a reduction of 15 per cent from 2025 compared to 2021 figures and by 2030, a reduction of 55 per cent, relative to 2021 figures. China and Japan are also tightening emission policies, while the U.S. has taken a more variable approach over the years, with some states enforcing stricter measures than others.

Within the EU, emission regulations have progressed rapidly. In 2015, the average CO₂ emissions per vehicle were 130 grams per kilometre, dropping to 95 grams by 2021. Simply adding fuel-efficient models to a product lineup is no longer enough, however – manufacturers have had to invest heavily in new technology. The penalties for non-compliance are severe – exceeding emissions limits by just one gram resulted in a fine of €95 per vehicle. As of 2025, the fines for non-compliance with CO² emissions targets remain significant. The penalty for exceeding the emissions limit is still €95 per gram of CO₂ per kilometer per vehicle. However, the European automotive industry has been advocating for relief from these fines due to the economic impact and the challenges in meeting the stringent targets.

Across the world, taxation policies based on environmental classification have also accelerated advancements in engine technology. These changes, coupled with rising fuel prices and growing concerns over urban air quality, have driven innovation at an unprecedented pace.

Beyond CO₂ reductions, air quality improvements have led to stringent regulations on pollutants like hydrocarbons (HC), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulates. The Euro 4 standards in 2008 introduced diesel particulate filters (DPFs), while Euro 6 mandated NOx catalytic converters (selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems) for diesel engines. Euro 6d regulations required gasoline particulate filters (GPFs) for all direct-injection gasoline engines. Looking ahead, Euro 7 standards are currently set to be introduced in a phased approach from late 2026.

Now, the role of lubricants is to contribute to both engine performance and emissions reductions. Since 2004, the industry has reduced sulphur, phosphorus, and metal-containing additives with the introduction of mid and low  SAPS (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulphur) oils. These additives help to maintain optimal engine performance and prolong oil life. However, sulphated ash is poorly tolerated by catalytic converters and can reduce their efficiency. The same also applies to phosphorus and sulphur; both are substances that should be excluded as much as possible from exhaust gas after-treatment systems. Striking a balance between performance and emission control remains a key challenge for oil manufacturers.

The rapid evolution of engine technology continues to push lubricant performance requirements. Modern small-displacement, high-output turbo engines demand robust oil formulations. For example, small one-liter, three-cylinder turbo engines can already generate more than 140 horsepower (hp) per litre – comparable to some performance cars, which deliver just over 150 hp per litre from much larger engines. These compact powerplants operate under extreme conditions, requiring lubricants designed for high temperatures and pressures.

The rise of hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric vehicles (EVs) further influences the lubricant industry. While EVs reduce fleet-wide emissions, traditional internal combustion engines (ICEs) still require advanced lubricants to meet evolving efficiency and durability standards. The transition to electrification is ongoing, with many automakers investing in both ICE and hybrid powertrains alongside their EV developments.