Engine oil for heavy-duty vehicles – maximizing performance

Pubblicato il: 21 April 2025

Choosing the right heavy-duty engine lubricant to maximize performance and minimize environmental impact

Traditional engine lubricants are formulated with high viscosity levels to provide adequate protection for metallic surfaces. While higher viscosity ensures effective safeguarding, it can also lead to a reduction in overall efficiency. The real challenge lies in finding the right balance, minimizing frictional losses without compromising engine protection. This is where advanced research in lubricant development plays a crucial role: evaluating viscosity under extreme operating conditions.

HT-HS: what is it and why is it important?

A key parameter in heavy-duty engine oils is HT-HS (High Temperature High Shear),  the viscosity of the lubricant under high temperature and high shear stress, replicating critical zones in the engine such as the crankshaft-to-bearing interface. This value, measured at 150°C under severe shear conditions, is essential for determining a lubricant’s ability to reduce fuel consumption while still protecting the engine.
Previously, viscosity was only assessed at 100°C. However, with modern heavy-duty engines, this alone is no longer sufficient to ensure optimal performance.
Lubricants with an HT-HS value below 3.5 cP enable engines to operate with reduced internal resistance, enhancing thermodynamic efficiency and lowering fuel consumption.
However, not all engines are compatible with lower HT-HS values: these must be specifically approved by the engine manufacturer to avoid the risk of damage under extreme load conditions.

Fuel Economy: savings with balance

The primary advantage of a low HT-HS value lies in its contribution to fuel economy. Through targeted formulations and additive technologies, lubricants with HT-HS values below 3.5 cP are classified as Fuel Economy oils and can provide significant fuel savings.

Basically, lower HT-HS means reduced fuel consumption and, consequently, lower harmful emissions. However, achieving the right balance between performance and consumption reduction is complex. Lubricants play a critical role in this process, as they must deliver optimal protection for engine components without undermining performance.

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ACEA F01: the new frontier in low-viscosity fuel economy lubricants

Within the ever-evolving landscape of engine oils, ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association) introduced a new specification at the end of 2024: ACEA F01. This marks a major step forward in addressing emission reduction and energy efficiency targets for modern engines.

What is the ACEA F01 Specification?

ACEA members manufacturing heavy-duty vehicles are developing next-generation propulsion systems aimed at maximizing fuel efficiency and meeting the latest, more stringent EU emissions standards. In response, the F01 motor oil specification was established, featuring more stringent viscosity requirements compared to the existing E11-24 specifications.
ACEA F01 defines a new class of Fuel Economy lubricants with HT-HS values between 2.9 and 3.2 cP. These oils are specifically engineered for new-generation diesel engines in heavy-duty vehicles, ensuring optimal fuel efficiency and full compatibility with advanced exhaust aftertreatment systems. The focus is strongly centered on reducing internal friction and maximizing fuel savings.

Choosing the Right Lubricant for Your Engine with Pakelo

Selecting the correct lubricant is essential to achieving peak engine performance and ensuring long service life. The key lies in always referring to the specifications outlined in the vehicle’s owner’s manual, as each engine has distinct requirements. Choosing the correct lubricant, particularly with the appropriate HT-HS value, can significantly impact performance, energy savings, and engine protection.
Increasingly stringent emission regulations are driving the automotive industry toward smarter, more efficient decisions in both fuel consumption and performance. Fuel Economy and the appropriate lubricant selection are critical factors in meeting environmental challenges while enhancing overall performance.
Investing in the right technology, such as the solutions offered by Pakelo lubricants, is vital for staying ahead in a rapidly evolving market and ensuring a more efficient and sustainable vehicle fleet.

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