Shell is to debut a new transmission lubricant with the Nissan e.dams Formula E team at the Monaco round of the electric racing championship. According to Shell, the bespoke transmission fluid has been designed and tested in collaboration with the race team for its new powertrain that debuts this weekend (May 8, 2021).
Transmission efficiency is of the utmost importance in the energy-limited series. With motor and inverter efficiency in the high 90% bracket, the transmission is an area where teams can still gain a useful advantage. This fact is highlighted by the move from multispeed transmissions to single- or twin-speed units, with the associated reduction in both mass and parasitic losses. Lubricants have an important role to play, with suppliers having to strike the right balance between friction reduction, viscosity and reliability.
“In Nissan, Shell has united with a global pioneer in the development of electric mobility solutions, who share the same desire to deliver technological innovations from the racetrack to the road,” said Selda Gunsel, Shell VP Lubricants Technology. “As we transition to a lower-carbon future, we both see Formula E as a rich territory for the innovation of e-mobility technologies that all EV drivers can benefit from, including our Shell E-Fluids range that is designed to protect passenger EVs against electric motor corrosion, improve range through increased transmission efficiency, and enhance the charging process via efficient thermal management.”
