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OUR BLOG

12/07/2023
Autonomous vehicles can still face unique challenges despite their cutting-edge technology. Superior Synthetics LLC in Clintonville targets the most common lubrication challenges in autonomous cars below.

Drive the future with AMSOIL lubricants! Order today or contact Superior Synthetics LLC in Clintonville at (800) 409-2167 if you need help to choose between formulas.

As autonomous vehicles continue to make strides in the automotive industry, they bring about many benefits, including increased safety, reduced traffic congestion, and improved fuel efficiency, so one can't skimp on their correct upkeep. Thus, this blog post delves into some of the most relevant lubrication challenges in autonomous cars.

Increased Component Complexity

Autonomous vehicles are equipped with a wide array of sensors, processors, and mechanical components that work harmoniously to make split-second decisions and help pilots navigate safely. While the complexity of these components allows for advanced autonomous capabilities, it also poses significant lubrication challenges. In particular, the increased number of moving parts demands precise and consistent lubrication to prevent wear and tear, reduce friction, and ensure reliable operation.
  1. Sensor Arrays: Autonomous vehicles rely on a myriad of sensors, such as LiDAR, radar, and cameras, to perceive their surroundings. These sensors are often mounted on moving parts and require specialized lubrication to maintain accuracy and extend lifespan.
  2. Electric Motors: Electric propulsion systems are standard in autonomous vehicles. The electric motors that power these vehicles require appropriate lubrication to prevent overheating and reduce friction, ensuring optimal energy efficiency.

Extreme Environmental Conditions

Autonomous vehicles are expected to operate in various environmental conditions, from scorching deserts to freezing winters. These conditions can significantly impact lubrication and can lead to issues such as oil thickening in cold temperatures and reduced lubricant effectiveness in high heat. The lubricants must be carefully selected to perform in diverse climates consistently.
  1. Cold Weather: In frigid environments, lubricants must maintain their viscosity to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation. For that reason, special cold-weather lubricants are essential to prevent solidification and protect moving parts.
  2. Hot Climates: In extremely hot conditions, lubricants need to resist degradation and maintain their lubricating properties. High-temperature stability is crucial to avoid overheating and component failure.

Minimize these problems and experience smoother, safer autonomous drives with the help of Superior Synthetics LLC in ClintonvilleDial (800) 409-2167 or head to the AMSOIL online store to stock up on the brand's best goods.

Reducing Friction

Friction is one of the main lubrication challenges in autonomous cars. So, finding the right formula is vital in achieving this goal and improving vehicle performance. Reduced friction leads to lower energy consumption and helps extend the life of critical vehicle components.
  1. Advanced Lubricants: Engineers are developing lubricants with advanced formulations, including nanomaterials and additives, to minimize friction and improve overall efficiency. These lubricants provide a micro-thin protective layer that reduces wear and extends the life of mechanical pieces.
  2. Smart Lubrication Systems: Autonomous vehicles are equipped with advanced monitoring and control systems. In short, these smart lubrication systems can analyze data from sensors and adjust the lubrication levels in real time, optimizing efficiency while ensuring proper protection.

Sustainable Lubrication

As the automotive industry strives to reduce its environmental footprint, lubrication practices are also evolving. Traditional lubricants can harm the environment, and finding sustainable alternatives is becoming increasingly important. Synthetic oils are increasingly used in both autonomous and traditional vehicles for several reasons:

Improved Performance

Synthetic lubricants often offer better performance characteristics compared to conventional mineral-based oils. They have better viscosity stability over a wide range of temperatures, which is particularly important in autonomous vehicles operating in various conditions.

Extended Service Life

Synthetic lubricants tend to have a longer service life than conventional oils, which can result in reduced maintenance frequency. This can benefit autonomous vehicle fleets, as less downtime for maintenance translates to increased availability of transportation services.

High-Temperature Stability

Autonomous vehicles, especially electric ones, can generate significant heat. Synthetic lubricants often have better high-temperature stability, which is important for critical components such as electric motors and transmissions.

Cleaner Operation

Synthetic lubricants typically produce fewer deposits and sludge, which can help maintain cleaner and more reliable systems in autonomous vehicles over time.

Power steering systems in vehicles, including autonomous ones, benefit from a high-quality synthetic fluid that ensures smooth and responsive steering. AMSOIL's Synthetic Power Steering Fluid will become your best ally to achieve peak efficiency. Call Superior Synthetics LLC in Clintonville at (800) 409-2167 to try this product.

Also, don't forget to check out the official AMSOIL website to get to know the brand before you start solving lubrication challenges the AMSOIL way.