Improvements in engine hardware and manufacturing technology have allowed the use of lower-viscosity grades in passenger car vehicles while maintaining engine durability. Additionally, the demand for better fuel economy has increased both end user and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) interest in low viscosity engine lubricants. This has led to an increase in the use of 5W-20 and even 0W-20 viscosity grades over the thicker 10W-30 and 10W-40 grades. The trend to lower viscosities will continue with the introduction of a new viscosity grade for ILSAC GF-6B, 0W-16. ILSAC GF-6 is an automotive specification intended to increase fuel economy, enhance oil longevity, and improve wear protection and emissions control.

ILSAC GF-6 performance relative to GF-5 and API SN Plus performance.

Oronite started working on the technology to meet this specification in 2011 and developed the OLOA® 55600 additive package, which has been thoroughly tested in real-world conditions for more than one million miles.

For more background on the transition from ILSAC GF-5 to GF-6, please see the video and articles below.

API SN Plus is a supplemental standard to the API SN specification, which introduces oils for LSPI (Low Speed Pre-ignition) mitigation.