As sustainability moves from industry talking point to workshop reality, lubricant manufacturers are under increasing pressure to deliver solutions that balance performance, efficiency and environmental responsibility. For Motul, that shift is already well underway.
Speaking to AutoScene, Andy Wait, Head of Business for UK & Ireland, and Mike Hansford, National Sales Manager, outlined how the company is evolving its product strategy, led by the development of its NGEN range and a broader focus on future vehicle technologies.
Rethinking the Foundations of Lubricants
For decades, lubricants have relied heavily on virgin crude oil. Motul’s NGEN range moves away from that model by incorporating re-refined base oils, helping reduce reliance on raw material extraction.
“Motul’s approach moves away from relying solely on what people traditionally think of as being the core of lubricants – virgin crude oil – by using rerefined base oils, which help to reduce the environmental impact of lubricant production,” explains Wait.
Hansford adds: “We have built sustainability directly into the core product design – rather than treating it as a compromise and we now call this NGEN Core technology.”
The result is a product range designed to reduce environmental impact while maintaining performance. As Wait explains: “Producing these re-refined base oils requires less energy than manufacturing virgin base stocks yet – when we look at the science behind the process – means it is able to deliver consistent molecular quality and performance!”
Crucially for workshops, there is no change to servicing requirements. “Standard drain intervals are still fully maintained, so there is no increase in oil consumption or waste,” he adds.
Packaging also plays a role, with Hansford noting the use of “eco-conscious packaging, with recycled plastics and simplified materials.”
From Motorsport to the Workshop Floor
Motul’s motorsport heritage continues to play a key role in product development, feeding directly into products used in everyday vehicles.
“Motul has for decades and decades used the high intensity of motorsport as part of its research and development testing to validate and refine our technologies,” says Hansford.
The benefits extend beyond the track. “The knowledge and data gained from these extreme conditions then transfer into road relevant products for everyday motoring.”
Partnerships with manufacturers such as McLaren further strengthen this process.
Wait adds: “Our partnership with McLaren – in both F1 and World Endurance – and the lessons learned, in the heat of competition, will rapidly transfer into road car products, to ensure that everyday vehicles – of all sorts – benefit from this process.”
Meeting the Demands of Modern Engines
Modern engines – particularly downsized, turbocharged and stop-start units – place increasing demands on lubricants.
Hansford explains: “NGEN Core Technology is engineered to meet the demands of modern engines, including turbocharged, downsized, and stop-start applications.”
Importantly, compatibility remains a key focus. “Our lubricants comply with key OEM and industry specifications – such as ACEA and API – to ensure real world suitability.”
Preparing for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
Hybrid vehicles introduce additional challenges, particularly in how lubricants perform under varying operating conditions.
“Hybrid vehicles place unique demands on lubricants through their frequent engine start-stop cycles, lower operating temperatures, and extended periods of electric-only driving,” says Hansford.
Motul has developed specific products to address this. “Motul NGEN Hybrid is specifically engineered for these conditions by delivering rapid oil circulation, strong anti-wear protection during cold starts, and enhanced oxidation stability.”
However, the company’s strategy extends beyond hybrids alone.
Wait explains: “We recognise that hybrid and electric technologies will undoubtedly coexist for many years and this approach ensures Motul remains relevant for combustion, hybrid, and electrified platforms.”
A Complete Fluid Approach
Motul’s offering extends beyond engine oils, with a full range of supporting fluids designed to work together.
“Overall reliability and efficiency depend on how all of the fluid systems of a vehicle work together – rather than on engine oil alone,” says Wait.
Hansford adds: “Our complementary product ranges include brake fluids engineered for thermal stability and consistent pedal feel; coolants designed for effective heat management and material protection, and transmission fluids & additives that provide efficiency for both the drivetrain and fuel system.”
This allows Motul to offer a more complete solution to workshops. “This comprehensive approach allows Motul to operate as a complete essential-fluid partner – rather than just an oil brand,” he says.
Balancing Performance and Sustainability
Looking ahead, Motul’s focus remains on delivering performance while reducing environmental impact.
“The launch of the NGEN range was an early demonstration of how Motul balances premium performance with a reduced environmental impact – crucially, without asking drivers to compromise on protection or reliability,” says Wait.
Hansford adds: “Sustainability is embedded across our entire product development process, and this has now evolved into NGEN Core Technology.”
A Future-Focused Approach
With the automotive sector continuing to evolve, Motul is focused on staying relevant across a wide range of vehicle technologies.
“There is also a broader long-term roadmap for Motul, which focuses on delivering premium performance, reducing environmental footprint, and maintaining relevance across an automotive market that continues to evolve – whether that takes the form of ICE, Electric or even Hydrogen vehicles,” says Wait.
For workshops, the key takeaway is that lubricant technology is evolving but without adding complexity to day-to-day servicing.
As Motul continues to develop its range, the aim is clear: deliver performance, maintain reliability, and support the industry’s shift towards a more sustainable future.
