November 11, 2025 by David Motton
Shell Lubricants has developed a new battery cooling fluid which could drastically cut the time needed for recharging an EV to under 10 minutes
Shell Lubricants has developed a new battery cooling fluid which could drastically cut the time needed for recharging.
Shell claims the new thermal fluid could allow a 10-80% charge in less than 10 minutes. Typically, this would take around half an hour today, even with ultra-rapid charging.
Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
The new fluid also promises to reduce the number of components needed to cool a car’s electric drivetrain, reducing weight. This in turn should make electric cars more efficient and cheaper to power.
“Our Shell EV-Plus Thermal Fluid’s ability to entirely replace traditional glycol-based coolants and work with existing hardware is a game-changer. It shows that you don’t need a patchwork of cooling systems; one fluid can do it all, enabling ultra-fast charging and facilitating optimal drivetrain performance,” said Shell’s lead engineer on the project, Robert Mainwaring.
Shell worked on the project with the technology development company, Horiba-MIRA. Keeping electrical components within the range of temperatures at which they work best helps to improve safety and durability as well as allowing faster charging, according to Horiba-MIRA’s engineers.
“The ability to manage heat effectively across the entire power train is fundamental to unlocking the full potential of BEV technology, enabling faster charging, improved safety, and longer component life,” says Horiba-MIRA chief thermal engineer, Dr David Bridge. “This is a significant step forward in the journey towards a fully electrified and sustainable transport future.”
The cooling fluid is derived from natural gas, creating what Shell describes as a 99.5% pure base oil. Shell’s research has found that the fluid cools electrical components effectively even when the fluid is not in direct contact with the heat source. This is why Shell believes the new fluid can effectively cool all the electrical powertrain components, not just the battery.
Electric cars work at their absolute best at 21.5°C according to the telematics company, Geotab. It’s quite well known that low temperatures reduce the range of an EV, but extremely high temperatures can have a similar effect. According to EV data specialist Recurrent, range drops by 15% in temperatures of 35°C. So, better cooling could be key to reducing the negative impact of high temperatures on EV range.
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
Click here to follow us on WhatsApp, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos.
* Please contact the dealer for a personalised quote, including terms and conditions. Quote is subject to dealer requirements, including status and availability. Illustrations are based on personal contract hire, 9 month upfront fee, 48 month term, 8000 miles annually, inc VAT, excluding fees. Vehicle returned at term end.
** Our marketing claims explained.
Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Carwow vs manufacturer RRP. Where it is shown that the EV Grant is included, this refers to the Government grant awarded to manufacturers on certain EV models and derivatives, the amount awarded under the EV Grant is included in the Savings stated and applied at the point of sale. Carwow is the trading name of Carwow Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit broking and insurance distribution activities (firm reference number: 767155). Carwow Leasey Limited is an appointed representative of ITC Compliance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit broking (firm reference number: 313486) Carwow and Carwow Leasey Limited are each credit brokers and not a lenders. Carwow and Carwow Leasey Limited may receive a fee from retailers advertising finance and may receive a commission from partners (including dealers) for introducing customers. All finance offers and monthly payments shown are subject to application and status. Carwow is covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service (please see www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk for more information). Carwow Ltd is registered in England (company number 07103079), registered office 2nd Floor, Verde Building, 10 Bressenden Place, London, England, SW1E 5DH. Carwow Leasey Limited is registered in England (company number 13601174), registered office 2nd Floor, Verde Building, 10 Bressenden Place, London, England, SW1E 5DH and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Carwow Ltd.

source