Your expert guide to hybrid technology
At Castrol, we are experts in hybrid lubricants. We understand the unique challenges and requirements needed from hybrid engines and engine oil.
The rise in popularity of hybrid vehicles
The drive for hybrid technology is growing. By 2025, it is expected that one in four cars sold globally will be hybrid1.
We want to keep everyone up to date on the latest hybrid technologies and products to support the transition to electrification.
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The hybrid difference
Hybrid systems operate in different ways to conventional cars. This presents a unique set of challenges. Our technologists work to help ensure our oils deliver optimum performance in hybrids. This includes partnering with leading vehicle manufacturers and motorsport teams. The right lubricant can make the difference in dealing with the challenges of hybrid engines.
How does a hybrid work?
Hybrids are powered by multiple energy sources:
- An internal combustion engine (ICE)
- An electric motor
- A battery
Different types of hybrid vehicles
There are different types of hybrid, but the basic principle is the same for all of them. It’s just the degree of ‘hybridisation’ that varies (or how much the vehicle relies on the internal combustion engine versus the electric components).
Mild hybrid (MHEV)
Mild hybrid systems include a motor and a battery pack, which the internal combustion engine charges during normal driving. The motor provides a boost to the powertrain, but it can’t move the vehicle on its own.
Full hybrid (FHEV)
Full hybrids (also known as self-charging hybrids) have powerful electric motors. Full hybrids have a significant electric-only range, so they’re ideal for urban driving. The battery is recharged while the engine is in use. Some full hybrids also recharge the battery through regenerative braking.
Plug-in hybrids (PHEV)
Plug-in hybrids are like full hybrids, with large batteries that can be self-charging. But as the name suggests, you can also recharge plug-in hybrids using an external electricity supply. This further extends the electric-only range and improves fuel efficiency.
Range extended electric hybrids (REEV)
A REEV drives like an electric vehicle with the car always powered by its electric motor(s). Primary battery charging is provided by plugging into domestic or commercial electricity supplies. Extended vehicle range is provided by the addition of a small internal combustion engine. The engine alone has no ability to drive the wheels. Instead, it powers a generator to maintain the charge level of the battery.
Discover our hybrid performance standard
Currently, there is no dedicated industry standard specification for hybrid engine oils. HYSPEC is Castrol’s new technical standard for hybrid engine oils. It’s our own benchmark that we have chosen to measure our engine oils for hybrids against.
Introducing HYSPEC
Drawing on our years of experience, Castrol has created a comprehensive benchmark for hybrid engine oil performance.
