What are the core applications for different basestocks?
Source: Kline’s Basestock Intelligence Center
Nevertheless, certain applications still demand specialised base oils. Group I and naphthenics remain critical for metalworking fluids, greases, and process oils. However, beyond these niche requirements, cost and availability will largely dictate base oil selection for most industrial uses. In short, while performance is crucial, economic factors will ultimately drive decisions.
EV fluids: The new frontier
The rise of EVs will transform lubricant demand in many ways. As EVs do away with multi-speed gearboxes and combustion-driven components, the need for traditional engine oils and transmission fluids is diminishing. In their place, specialised e-fluids are emerging as critical for electric powertrains. Dielectric fluids ensure safe insulation for high-voltage systems, while thermal management fluids regulate battery and motor temperatures to prevent overheating and extend life. Additionally, electrical transmission fluids optimise reduction gears and enhance drivetrain efficiency. Not only are these advanced formulations functional, but they are also essential for performance, safety, and longevity in the EV ecosystem. As electrification accelerates, these new lubricant categories will define the next frontier for innovation in the industry.
Market outlook: • As EV penetration rises, demand will shift from high-volume engine oils to a range of coolants/ thermal management fluids, driveline fluids,
and greases, each with more stringent safety and performance standards. With internal EV architectures still evolving, this uncertainty is significant because if immersion cooling scales beyond niche deployments, it can materially expand demand for dielectric fluids and the high-performance base oils that they require. Even without immersion cooling dominance, the trend is clear: EV fluids categories are forecast for sustained double-digit growth, albeit from a small base. The winners will be those who tailor their base oil offerings to meet OEM qualification needs (such as oxidation stability, low volatility, dielectric performance, and compatibility) rather than relying on traditional engine oil volume strategies.
As EVs redefine mobility, their specialised fluids, dielectric, thermal management, and electrical transmission fluids must meet stringent performance requirements far beyond those of conventional lubricants. This demands high-performance base oils such as Group III/III+, polyalphaolefins (PAO), and other synthetics, which deliver properties essential for EV applications.
These advanced base oils offer exceptional oxidative stability, ensuring long fluid life under high thermal loads. Their superior low-temperature fluidity guarantees reliable performance in extreme climates, while excellent electrical insulation makes them ideal for high-voltage and high-temperature environments. Additionally, low volatility and high thermal
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