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.