With the GF-5 engine oil specification less that two years into consumer operation, industry regulators are already looking ahead to GF-6.
According to recent reports, an Auto-Oil Advisory panel is already well into the task of working with the lubricant, auto and engine manufacturing industries to develop the new specification, despite GF-5 products only hitting the shelves in October 2010. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the focus on the new spec is predominantly on fuel economy, while performance enhancement and durability are also part of the mix.
One significant difference is likely to be the sub-division of the specification into two categories - GF-6 A and B - an industry first. While 6A will be backwards compatible with GF-5 and other earlier specifications, 6B is aimed at higher temperature and shear viscosity lubricants which are only likely to be useable with more recent engine technology. This is currently presenting some challenges in terms of presentation for consumer marketing, according to observers.
The Advisory Panel is, itself, being sub-divided to focus on three aspects of the standard - testing, funding and guidelines. While most of the bench test requirements are unlikely to change dramatically from the GF-5 tests, a number of recommendations are being made by auto trade body ILSAC, as well as by engine manufacturers, to tighten sequence test limits and make them more rigorous. Two additional engine tests are also apparently being suggested.
Further developments are likely to be revealed when the Panel meets again in August 2012.