More and more, engine oils must minimize or avoid their effect on the durability of particulate filters and catalysts, and in the future, on terrestrial and aquatic environments. They must also maximize their contribution to fuel economy. Replacing hydrocarbon-based oils with environmentally friendly products is one of the ways to reduce the adverse effects on the ecosystem caused by the use of lubricants. By analyzing recent technological evolutions and future trends in engine oil specifications, with the associated consequences for the functional properties performed by base oils and individual additives, the need and potential application of alternative base oils with intrinsic properties will be displayed. The focus of this chapter is on alternative base oils.