Shell Rotella: Leading the Next Generation of Heavy Duty Motor Oil

With a substantial focus on superior wear protection and engine cleanliness in comparison to other brands, Shell Rotella® has become an ally for fleet managers whose rigs are faced with long distances and extreme weather conditions. As engines and oil standards change, Shell is proving that it can lead the pack in researching and implementing the newest technology to meet the strict requirements for hardy engine lubricants.

In the past, Shell Rotella® T line engine oils evolved to exceed API CJ-4 requirements and compete with previous formulas. Shell asserts that the T Triple Protection®, tested for over 50 million miles, outperforms Rotella® T3 by offering 22% less iron wear. Shell Rotella® then met the demands of the latest diesel engines with its innovative T5 Synthetic Blend—one of the first to offer the 10W-40 grade—and the T6 Full Synthetic formula. According to an industry study, this synthetic formula beat brands like Mobil, Chevron, and Citgo with the smallest percentage of viscosity loss. (This study’s results and more can be found at the Shell Rotella® website).

Unfortunately, it’s no longer enough to exceed CJ-4 requirements, as the industry’s oil categories are changing. The newest category, PC-11, has updated standards for fuel efficiency and emissions that will come in two specifications. The CK-4 form will directly replace CJ-4 engine oils with full, backwards compatibility, so its superior formula will be applicable to current engines. The FA-4 form is based on better fuel economy, and its lower-viscosity oils will be applicable only to new engines.

The good news is that Shell Rotella® understands the questions that fleet managers will have once the PC-11 categories goes into effect. How will the new oil perform in comparison? Is it worth it? And will it really work in current engines? Since April, the Shell Rotella® Road Show has educated consumers about the new specifications and what that means for their vehicles and their businesses. The Road Show provided informational exhibits and interactive displays.

In addition, Shell’s educational site states that the company has already tested new, low-viscosity formulas. The trials were conducted over more than 30 million miles to prove the formula’s effectiveness before the new diesel oil specifications begin in December. These trials included the disassembly of engine parts to evaluate the oil’s ability to protect different components.

For those looking for answers about the immediate future of motor oil, this commitment to education and innovation is a sign that Shell is invested in leading the market for the next generation of heavy-duty lubricants.