Demonstrating the fuel economy potential of passenger car motor oils

Passenger car oil formulators face several challenges when interpreting results from industry standard fuel economy tests: a) their relevance to the evolving vehicle fleet and marketplace under 'real-world' driving conditions is not readily understood; b) based on these test results, it is usually not possible to have a feel for the maximum benefit theoretically/practically achievable. This paper attempts to address these issues with engine and vehicle simulation techniques. The 'real-world' fuel economy potential of passenger car oils is investigated in a wide range of cars that are representative of the European, U. S. and Indian market.