ExxonMobil: enhancing efficiency through high-performance engine oils

Lubricant provider ExxonMobil has outlined a range of advantages it says fleet operators can benefit from as a result of selecting high-performance engine oils.

In today’s extraordinary circumstances, energy efficiency may not be at the top of an operator’s list of priorities, the company concedes – but it argues that making it a business imperative could make a real difference in the long term.

“Consistently achieving top performance from commercial vehicle operations is a major challenge,” said ExxonMobil.

“However, by taking a holistic approach throughout operations  – from simple changes to back-office processes to investments in the latest on-the-road technology – there may be a number of areas across a fleet where efficiencies can be found…

“Tests have shown that a change from conventional engine oil to a high performance, low viscosity heavy-duty synthetic diesel engine oil in commercial vehicles provides the potential for improved fuel economy on the road.

“Mobil Delvac 1 LE 5W-30, for example, has been shown to deliver an average 1.8 per cent fuel economy gain for highway driving conditions.”

This fuel economy evaluation was conducted using two Volvo FM440 Euro 5 trucks, loaded to 75 per cent payload (about 70,550 lbs). Testing was conducted on track at the Millbrook Proving Ground.

“Statistically significant fuel economy benefits were observed in the Volvo trucks, when comparing Mobil Delvac 1 LE 5W-30 to a conventional 15W-40 engine oil,” said ExxonMobil.

Fuel economy improvements are dependent on vehicle/equipment type, outside temperature, driving conditions and current fluid viscosities.

Compared to conventional oils, low viscosity, fully synthetic oils also offer better protection against wear and deposit formation, says ExxonMobil, which can cause costly maintenance bills.

Moreover, whether a fleet is operating in the summer heat or moving supplies during the depths of winter, synthetic lubricants provide excellent protection, adds the company.

“When you consider all of these reasons, it’s clear that switching a fleet from conventional oils to an advanced low viscosity fully synthetic engine oil can ultimately help improve the bottom line,” said ExxonMobil’s Claes-Peter Lindner.

“But it’s not just about engine performance. We work side-by-side with fleet operators and equipment builders to develop bespoke, bumper-to-bumper lubrication solutions that deliver beyond expectations.”

Selecting the most appropriate lubricant is not always straightforward, so ExxonMobil recommends that fleet operators should work with a trusted supplier and take note of the vehicle manufacturer’s guidance.

Further information on the Mobil Delvac range of high performance engine oils is available on the company’s website.