Chevron announced last week a new category of engine oil for severe duty, start-and-stop applications. A nationwide rollout is planned for Sept. 15.
“This is something that we’ve been working on for the better part of two years,” Randy Brillhart, Chevron global marketing manager, says. “This is not a one oil fits all world anymore.”
Chevron’s testing shows comparable fuel economy to SAE 10W-30 in Class 6 stop-and-go applications and up to 0.7 percent fuel economy improvement with long haul Class 8 trucks when compared to a SAE 15W-40 oil.
The oil is backward compatible with previous API Oil Service Categories and engine models where XW-30 oils are appropriate as noted in the OEM recommendations.
Jim Gambill, Delo brand manager, says the new oil addresses some emerging trends, including changes in equipment usage with the rise of intermodal.
“We’re seeing more short-haul lengths,” Gambill says noting a preference of multipurpose vehicles as companies struggle to attract and retain drivers has led to a rise in severe duty usage.
Start-and-stop patterns can cause engine temperatures to spike as oil circulates through the turbocharger. However, severe duty oil drain intervals are generally longer than long-haul, meaning more stress is placed on the oil (and the turbocharger) for a longer period of time.
One in seven trucks will experience a turbocharge failure this year and that represents a $400 million problem annually, Gambill notes.
John Green, product technical specialist, says the new oil out performed other similar SAE, synthetics and synthetic blends in heat testing; showing better oxidation properties heated to temperatures up to 210 degrees C, and better deposit control when heated upwards of 300 degrees C.
“This really surprised us that this new approach to technology really out performed (on a level) that, on paper, no one really would expect,” Gambill says.
Customers who buy 10 gallons or more of Delo 400 SD SAE will receive five free oil analysis.
“The promotion is designed to provide the proof that (the customer) needs,” Gambill says.
The product will be available in the U.S. as of Sept. 15.
