The target date for the introduction of the next generation of heavy-duty engine oils is rapidly approaching. You can expect to begin seeing the first licensed products under the PC-12 specifications around January 1, 2027.

The PC-12 initiative has progressed as planned since its announcement back in 2022. The specifications have been finalized. As expected, the two new categories under PC-12 have been officially named CL-4 and FB-4, in keeping with the API’s nomenclature standard.

The distinction between the two categories has to do with viscosity grades. CL-4 lubricants will be higher in viscosity, meaning thicker, and will be designed to be backwards compatible with current and older engine models. FB-4 designates lower viscosity oils formulated specifically for 2027 and subsequent model year engines. The FB-4 category opens the door to the development of very thin viscosity grades, such as XW-20, to help support higher fuel economy standards.

Full Speed Ahead

As you may recall, PC-12 was launched in response to the EPA’s tighter emission and fuel economy standards due to take effect with the 2027 model year. The new standards will require modifications to heavy duty vehicle engine design and exhaust aftertreatment systems, which in turn calls for new engine oil specifications and formulations. Notwithstanding reports that the current EPA regime may relax some longer-term fuel economy requirements, OEMs are moving ahead with every intention of meeting the new standards, and oil producers are maintaining momentum in the development of new PC-12 oils. We are well aware that our customers have a strong business interest in improved fuel economy.

A key focus of the new standards is emission control system performance and durability. Aftertreatment systems in 2027 truck models must comply with a service life requirement of 650,000 miles. Lubricant formulators have an important role to play in this effort. PC-12 calls for a tighter chemical box, specifically reductions in the levels of sulfated ash and phosphorous in the oil. These changes are intended to help aftertreatment systems function properly over a longer period of time and to promote better fuel economy. While new, more advanced emission control systems may add to the price of newer-model trucks, operators stand to reap potential fuel savings over time.

Implementation is Underway

Engine oil producers like Chevron are now in the middle of the one-year mandatory waiting period or demonstration phase. Oil producers and our additive partners have had the opportunity to determine the feasibility of meeting the PC-12 specifications and the viability of our formulations. Having crossed that threshold, we now have the green light to move ahead with product implementation. We are putting new PC-12 oils into production and readying our supply chain, with the goal of getting those products into end-users’ hands by January 1.

In the second half of this year, OEM recommendations and requirements relative to PC-12 oils should become more clear. Based on our experience, we expect that some but not all will allow lower-viscosity FB-4 oils and are likely to use them for factory fills in 2027 trucks. CL-4 oils will likely be approved for older vehicles currently using CK-4 oils, and operators can make the switch with confidence. Meanwhile, existing CK-4 and FA-4 oils will be phased out naturally as oil manufacturers and marketers sell out their inventories and replace them with the newer PC-12 formulations.

To understand how this change might affect your business, it’s important to have a good sense of your fleet makeup and stay attuned for announcements coming from the various OEMs. These days, most fleets have a mix of equipment types, spanning newer and older models as well as a variety of manufacturers. At the same time, we’re aware that operators want to reduce maintenance complexity and work with just a few oils that have the broadest possible applications. This would be a good time to have conversations with your OEMs and oil marketers to help navigate the changing landscape and identify the right fluid choices for your situation. If you anticipate purchasing 2027 model year equipment, be aware of the new requirements and restrictions that may affect your procurement strategy.

As always, Chevron is here to help with this transition and to make sure you have the products you need from day one.