30 hp - Reducing waste, enhancing performance: Lubricants analysis for sustainable mobility solution

Introduction
Thesis work is an excellent way to get closer to TRATON AB and build relationships for the future. Many of today's employees began their TRATON AB career with their degree project.

Background
TRATON AB is undergoing a major transformation, evolving from a supplier of trucks, buses to a provider of complete and sustainable transportation solutions. As a part of this shift, we are exploring new technologies and materials that support long-term environmental goals. 

One key area of focus is the development of lubricants for new generation of engines and electric vehicles (EVs). As well as, conventional combustion engines, EVs present new challenges in lubrication, particularly regarding the durability and performance of fluids over extended service intervals. Currently, millions of litres of lubricants are consumed and discarded annually due to outdated maintenance routines and incompatible formulations, leading to increased environmental impact and operational costs. 

To support a more sustainable future, it is essential to extend lubricant life without compromising driveline durability or overall system performance. However, the physical and chemical behaviour of lubricants under prolonged use in transport applications remains insufficiently understood.

This thesis project offers an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research by investigating these challenges through experimental testing and method development. The goal is to generate insights that will help shape the next generation of lubricants, supporting both performance and sustainability.

Objective
The objective of this thesis is to improve the understanding of lubricant degradation in vehicle applications and to develop reliable testing methods that simulate real-world operating conditions. You will work closely with experts from TRATON’s engine development, design, and materials technology teams to:

• Conduct a literature review on lubricant degradation mechanisms and their impact on driveline performance.
• Design and execute laboratory experiments to compare different lubricant formulations and aging conditions.
• Develop methods for evaluating lubricant performance over extended service intervals.
• Analyze experimental results and propose improvements for future lubricant development and testing strategies.
• Document your findings in a written report and present them to relevant stakeholders within TRATON 
  
  
  

Job description:
This thesis combines practical experiments with theoretical analysis to address the challenges of lubricant performance in electric vehicle applications. The work will focus on identifying and evaluating the key factors that influence lubricant degradation and its impact on extended driveline oil change intervals.

You will:

• Identify critical parameters affecting lubricant degradation and long-term performance in transport systems.
• Develop methodologies that simulate real-world operational conditions, including thermal and chemical stressors.
• Use laboratory instruments to assess lubricant behaviour under extended oil change intervals.
• Correlate laboratory findings with parameters from field within driveline systems and draw actionable conclusions.
  
  
  
  

Education
We are seeking a motivated individual who enjoys hands-on experimental work, is eager to explore new technologies, and thrives in collaborative environments. The ideal candidate should be comfortable working with laboratory instruments and capable of independently managing their own research project.

M.Sc. student in Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or Engineering Physics.
 

Number of students: 1
Time: 20 weeks, full-time (40 hours/week)
Start: January 2026
Credits: 30hp
      

Contact persons and supervisors

Mayte Pach, Ph.D., Associate Senior Engineer,  Materials Technology for Chemistry, TRATON AB  + 46 8 553 862 49, Mayte.Pach@scania.com

Rocio Farias, MSc., Development engineer, Materials Technology for Chemistry, TRATON AB, +46 8 553 744 11, Rocio.Farias@scania.com  

Ragna Elger, Ph.D., Group Manager, Materials Technology for Chemistry, TRATON AB +46 8 553 854 12, Ragna.Elger@scania.com 

Application

Your application must include a CV, personal letter and transcript of grades.

A background check might be conducted for this position. We are conducting interviews continuously and may close the recruitment earlier than the date specified.   

Nothing is more important than our people. With a company culture that’s based on shared and inclusive core values. We have a supportive community, where everyone has opportunities to grow and succeed.