Electromobility is fundamentally changing the world of vehicles – and is presenting workshops with new technical and organisational challenges. Something that used to be the exception is now part of everyday life in many companies: vehicles with electric drive.

We are increasingly seeing fully electric vehicles on lifting platforms in workshops. This shift not only concerns the drive technology, but also changes the requirements in terms of maintenance, repairs and the operating materials used. High-voltage components such as battery systems, power electronics and electrified axle drives bring with them new technical parameters. Coolants need to have particularly low electrical conductivity values in order to protect sensitive components. At the same time, lubricants need to be resistant to electromagnetic fields – a requirement that was of little relevance for conventional drives.

Despite these changes, a large part of everyday business in workshops remains familiar. Brake systems, cleaning systems and conventional transmission parts continue to follow familiar standards. As a result, workshops are increasingly operating in a hybrid environment in which tried-and-tested technology meets new requirements. For day-to-day life, this means products and solutions are needed that cover both aspects, and are reliable, safe and compatible.

Understanding standards, ensuring safety

It will be crucial for workshops to recognise the differences between existing and new requirements – particularly in the area of high-voltage technology. In this sensitive environment, new safety-relevant criteria apply, for example with regard to electrical conductivity, dielectric characteristics or the material compatibility of the operating materials used. These technical requirements have a direct impact on day-to-day workshop operations, for example in the selection of suitable coolants and lubricants. Established guidelines such as ISO 6469 on electrical safety in road vehicles and SAE J3200, which deals with requirements for e-fluids, provide guidance. In addition, products suitable for workshop use must comply with the approvals of the respective vehicle manufacturer.

Identified at an early stage, developed in a targeted manner

The electromobility component market developed in a very brand-specific way at an early stage. Many vehicle manufacturers homologate their own oils, even if the underlying transmission systems differ only slightly. MOTOREX identified this development early on and opted for a technology-neutral development approach. On this basis, existing products are examined and new products designed specifically for electric vehicles are developed. EV fluids will be divided into two clearly defined categories in the future. “EV approved” stands for products that are suitable for both conventional and electric drives. “Only for EV”, on the other hand, refers to solutions that have been specifically developed for high-voltage and electric components and meet special requirements.

Clear categories for maximum safety of use

The “EV approved” category comprises products that are already tried and tested in the existing MOTOREX range and have been proven to be suitable for use on electric vehicles. They are used in areas where the technical requirements have changed very little compared to conventional drives. These products meet relevant standards and safety requirements and are ideal for use in mixed vehicle fleets. In contrast, “Only for EV” stands for targeted new developments that are used where conventional products no longer meet the increased requirements. These include, in particular, applications where electrical insulation, thermal stability or material compatibility are of the highest priority. This clear categorisation acts as a reliable guide for workshops in the increasingly complex product environment. This is supported by the MOTOREX OILFINDER, which makes the process of selecting products transparent and efficient.

Special solutions for demanding cooling applications

Within the “Only for EV” category, there are already two coolants that are prime examples of the new development approach. COOLANT EV-A6.7 was specially developed for applications with particularly high requirements in terms of low electrical conductivity. It is suitable for closed cooling circuits, such as those used in the cooling of fuel cells or battery cells. Its extremely low conductivity prevents ion migration and protects sensitive components from electrochemical reactions and resulting material damage. In contrast, COOLANT EV-C6.3 was developed for applications in areas with strong electromagnetic fields, such as for cooling housings in the immediate vicinity of electric motors or battery modules. This coolant has a significantly higher conductivity, but at the same time offers a dielectric characteristic that is 20 to 40 times better than conventional coolants from the internal combustion engine sector. This ensures a high level of operating reliability even under demanding high-voltage conditions.

Market proximity meets sustainability

The development of EV fluids is not only aligned with technical criteria, but also clear sustainability demands. The EV coolants meet the latest environmental standards and are designed for a long service life under real-world conditions. They are developed in Switzerland – in short innovation cycles and with direct reference to market needs.

A strong partner for a new era

Electromobility opens up new opportunities for modern and future-oriented maintenance strategies. MOTOREX is responding to this trend by establishing a specialised product range for the electric vehicle market. The company is focusing on applications where conventional products struggle – such as high-voltage cooling or lubrication for electrified powertrains. The product range is constantly being expanded and is consistently geared towards current technical requirements and approvals. Through this product range, MOTOREX is reaffirming its ambition to play an active role in shaping the transition to electromobility – with practical, reliable and future-proof solutions.

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