Senior Shell technicians are urging the lubes industry to "throw out the rules" when it comes to developing specifications.
Cameron Watson Image: Shell |
In an interview and webinar with AutomotiveWorld.com, Shell's Global Technology Manager Lubricants - OEM & Direct Sector - Cameron Watson, stated that when it comes to commercial vehicles, the industry needs to look at the way it develops lubes specifications.
Watson was clear about the challenge faced in development, stating: "We're up against individuals in various companies and various stakeholder groups who have long experience working with the specifications that they have developed. In some cases they've actually lost touch with the reasons for creating these specifications."
He pointed to a general resistance to change, but claimed that key drivers such as emissions regulation, fuel economy and competitor differentiation were forcing a rapid re-focusing of perceptions, with lubes being viewed as an important design parameter in the auto industry.
The interview, which included other Shell marketing and technology executives, also highlighted regional differences in attitude towards synthetic lubricants, despite the relatively limited amount of technical change required for engines to use synthetics or low viscosity oils. They did, however, agree that there was little difference in attitudes between the commercial vehicle and light vehicle manufacturers.
When it comes to service fill, the view was that the heavy duty sector was more likely to adhere to manufacturer recommendations, even several generations down the ownership chain, to ensure reliability.
The interview also discussed the use of GTL and CNG-based fuels and lubricants and the benefits of the new technology and infrastructure available to develop and deliver them. Overall there was a positive view amongst the interviewees that the global commercial vehicle sector was more receptive to changes in technology and alternative powertrains.