The second generation of General Motors` (GM) proprietary dexos1(TM) specification for gasoline engines is here, reflecting the global market shift toward higher performance lubricants and greater fuel economy.

In the face of increasingly strict fuel economy standards at the regulatory level, OEMs have been challenged to innovate with new, fuel efficient engine hardware. The dexos1 specification aims to ensure that engine oils for GM gasoline-powered hardware enable top performance with maximum fuel economy gains.

"With dexos1, GM is making certain that regardless of where a GM vehicle is manufactured or serviced, it will receive the same quality oil necessary to maximize performance," says Martin Birze, Lubrizol regional business manager, passenger car motor oils. "Through this global specification, GM is focused on heightened fuel economy without compromising durability or the performance of the oil."

"These are performance standards we`re uniquely positioned to help our customers meet," Birze continues. "Lubrizol`s additive technology protects the mechanical integrity of smaller, hotter, more demanding engines, all while lubricants trend toward lower and lower viscosities."

To ensure its customers` success, Lubrizol has been closely monitoring the new dexos1 specification development. Many existing passenger car motor oils for gasoline engines will likely need to be reformulated in order to meet the new dexos1 performance standards, which include:

Stochastic pre-ignition (SPI) prevention
Heightened fuel economy limits
Reduced turbocharger deposits
Additional testing to ensure durability and cleanliness

"Lubrizol has made the investment necessary to help our customers keep pace as GM pushes unprecedented performance," Birze says. "Part of this commitment includes the installation of the GM Oxidation Test in our facilities."

Mandatory transition to the new dexos1 specification is expected in August 2016; current dexos1 certification will expire at that time. Oil marketers are urged to examine their existing product lines and licensing status and to investigate potential reformulation challenges with new chemistry.

Lubrizol supports GM`s push for advanced lubricant technology that enables modern hardware and is here to assist all its customers in reformulation, testing and licensing with higher-performance additive chemistry. It`s part of Lubrizol`s focus on working with customers to achieve Success Together.