Revolutionizing the Automatic Transmission Fluid Market with a Breakthrough Solution
Shanghai, China — Lubrizol, a global leader in specialty chemicals, proudly announces the launch of Lubrizol® AT9311 automatic transmission fluid (“ATF”) additive, a next-generation passenger car multi-vehicle additive that marks a groundbreaking innovation in the ATF industry.
Specifically engineered for both traditional internal combustion engine vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles, Lubrizol® AT9311 is designed to meet the needs of high, low, and ultra-low viscosity formulations across diverse operating conditions. Compared to conventional ATF additives, this versatile additive enhances fuel economy, extends transmission oil drain interval, and meets the technical demands of modern multi-speed transmissions, including new generation 9-speed and 10-speed gearboxes, as well as complex hybrid systems. Rigorously tested across 100,000 kilometers of real-world road trials, alongside laboratory physicochemical analysis, bench simulations, and real-driving scenario validation, Lubrizol® AT9311 sets a new industry benchmark for reliability and innovation. With its innovative "one additive, multiple benefits" design, Lubrizol® AT9311 simplifies lubricant manufacturing, helping customers reduce costs and improve efficiency—making it a strategic solution in meeting the needs of China's trillion-yuan aftermarket.
As the number of passenger vehicles in China continues to grow, the automotive aftermarket is witnessing a significant rise. A wave of luxury and new energy vehicles is reaching the end of their warranty period, creating increasing demand for high-performance transmission fluids. Yet, the market faces two major challenges: hybrid vehicles require-appropriate electrical safety and material compatibility, while ultra-low viscosity fluids must deliver both anti-wear protection and optimal friction performance under ultra-thin film conditions.
Over the next five years, low and ultra-low viscosity ATFs are expected to become the core drivers of aftermarket growth. Lubrizol® AT9311 redefines industry standards with three key technological breakthroughs:
- Single-additive formulation: A unique blend that requires a lower treat rate while still meeting the demanding performance requirements of premium vehicles, significantly reducing production costs compared to conventional ATF additives.
- OEM-level validation: Backed by bench tests and real-world vehicle trials—Lubrizol® AT9311 delivers excellent film strength and anti-wear performance that meets original equipment standards.
- Hybrid compatibility: The additive delivers both electrical performance safety and compatibility with new materials to ensure battery system stability and long-term durability of components to provide strong support for the long-term, reliable operation of new energy vehicles.
Henry Liu, Vice President of Lubrizol Asia Pacific and Head of Lubrizol Additives Asia Pacific, commented, “The overall complexity and innovative sprit of the Chinese market is well recognized around the world. We not only bring world-class technologies to China but also localize them through rigorous validation systems tailored to local needs.”
To better serve the Chinese market, Lubrizol has R&D facilities in Shanghai and conducted tens of thousands of kilometers of road testing with leading domestic automakers. Through in-depth teardown analysis and big data modeling, the company can deliver detailed performance reports and customized solutions—empowering partners with differentiated competitive advantages.
Currently, Lubrizol® AT9311 has been successfully deployed in some premium vehicle brands, and has passed stringent validation requirements, becoming a long-term partner for some leading oil brands. From R&D to market implementation, Lubrizol remains driven by innovation—leading industry transformation and helping customers seize the opportunities in the booming ATF market.
Looking ahead, Lubrizol is committed to deepening its local collaborations, advancing the aftermarket toward a more efficient and sustainable future, and working alongside industry partners to shape a new chapter in China’s automotive evolution.
About The Lubrizol Corporation
The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, leverages its unmatched science and innovation to solve complex challenges for customers, drive sustainable and measurable results and help millions of people, communities and businesses around the world move cleaner, create smarter and live better every day. Founded in 1928, Lubrizol owns and operates more than 100 manufacturing facilities, sales and technical offices around the world and has approximately 8,600 employees. For more information, visit www.Lubrizol.com.