In the global automotive industry, stringent regulations and government initiatives are compelling car manufacturers to develop vehicles with lower emissions and higher fuel efficiency. This era of efficiency is enduring, necessitating high-performance lubricants and fuels to complement new hardware advancements and aid in achieving overall efficiency gains.
An essential method to diminish emissions from modern drivetrains is through the incorporation of aftertreatment devices, such as gasoline particulate filters (GPFs) in the passenger car segment and diesel particulate filters (DPFs) in the diesel segment. These filters are susceptible to being obstructed with ash, making it imperative to utilize low SAPS (Sulfated Ash, Phosphorous, Sulfur) lubricants to ensure long-term emissions compliance and prevent device failure.
Moreover, the use of lower-viscosity lubricants can result in fuel economy advantages by reducing friction between moving engine components, facilitating more efficient engine operation. Additionally, high-quality fuels with the correct additive technology are vital for sustaining engine cleanliness and ensuring optimal performance, especially in gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines and heavy-duty diesel applications.
In the heavy-duty segment, renewable diesel fuel, also referred to as hydrogenation-derived renewable diesel (HDRD), is gaining significance as a drop-in replacement for ULSD. When treated with the appropriate additives, renewable diesel can help prevent premature wear in metal-on-metal applications, making it an effective means to reduce carbon intensity.
As the automotive industry continues its trajectory towards a more fuel-efficient future, the role of high-performance additive chemistry in fuels and lubricants will become increasingly crucial. Collaboration among fuel and lubricant marketers, additive suppliers, and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) will be pivotal in steering this industry-wide shift towards a more sustainable and efficient automotive landscape.
Brett Blackburn, Fuels Product Manager at Lubrizol, lends his expertise on the significance of high-performance lubricants and fuels in accomplishing efficiency goals in the automotive industry.
In conclusion, the future of fuels and lubricants in the age of efficiency holds critical importance in meeting emissions targets and achieving overall fuel economy gains. By employing the right additives and engaging in collaboration across the value chain, the automotive industry can pave the way for a more sustainable and efficient future for vehicles worldwide.