Fuel savings through use of advanced Shell fuels and lubricants

Shell was the exclusive supplier of fuels and lubricants for Daimler AG’s “Truck fuel efficiency drive” in Nardo, Italy, last week during which a new record was set for the world's most economical series-production truck with the New Mercedes-Benz Actros.

The 40-tonne Mercedes-Benz Actros trailer/tractor combination consumed exactly 19,44 litres of diesel per 100 km, or the equivalent of less than 0,8 litres per hundred tonne-kilometres (tkm) over a seven day round-the-clock test drive covering 12 728,94 kilometres. This was a record-breaking feat that the Guinness World Records observers recognised with a world record entry in "The most fuel-efficient 40 ton truck" category.

The fuel consumption test took place under ideal conditions at the test site in Nardo and was designed to show what state-of-the-art vehicle technology can achieve. The new Actros incorporates the very latest Mercedes-Benz enhanced drive technology and used Shell’s most advanced products − the new Shell Diesel with a fuel economy formula and the new fuel saving lubricant, Shell Rimula R6 LME.

Ruth Cairnie, Vice President Commercial Fuels at Shell, emphasized that Shell was very proud to supply the Daimler truck testing with its products: “Both our new Shell Diesel and Shell Rimula have been proven to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions thereby helping fleet operators to minimise their costs”.

Internal comprehensive heavy-duty engine tests indicate that new Shell Diesel with fuel economy formula can save up to 3% of fuel in commercial vehicles. Internal tests have also shown that Shell Rimula R6 LME saves fuel, and independent testing has shown a saving of 1.1% (a) of fuel. Even bigger savings have been demonstrated with a full suite of driveline lubricants (b).

Developed by scientists at Shell Research laboratories in the UK and Germany, new Shell Diesel with a fuel economy formula is designed to keep the engine clean, which in turn leads to more effective and efficient combustion in the engine. In particular, it keeps the fuel injectors free of carbon deposits and helps preventing rust in the fuel pump, lines and injectors. The product can also help reduce exhaust emissions and smoke. It conforms to latest diesel fuel specifications established to control diesel vehicle emissions.

Alongside this is the new Shell Rimula R6 LME heavy-duty engine oil. Bernadette Kennedy, Global General Manager for Shell’s Transport lubricants stated: "Shell Rimula R6LME chosen by Daimler to support their successful world record attempt, is our most advanced transport lubricant to date. With proven 1.1% fuel economy savings (a), extended maintenance capability and enhanced protection for after treatment systems, Shell Rimula R6LME helps operators improve the sustainability of their operations through reduced emissions and waste oil generation.”

Shell Rimula R6 LME is approved by Daimler for maintenance intervals up to 120,000 km which is the highest currently allowed by Daimler. The product meets Euro V and the new ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers' Association) and truck maker specifications. Formulated with reduced levels of ash and sulphur, it currently exceeds requirements for limiting sulphur and phosphorus content for Mercedes-Benz, MAN and other manufacturers.

Shell’s commitment to technological innovation and partnerships with car and truck manufacturers is second to none. Ruth Cairnie, Shell’s Vice President, Commercial Fuels says; “Our collaboration with Daimler, the world’s largest supplier of trucks, is very important to Shell. It provides valuable input into our own product development and helps us to deliver technological solutions to our customers that support them in meeting the sustainable mobility challenge.”

(a) Testing by the University of Graz showed a 1.1% saving versus a 10W-40 engine oil
(b) Compared to conventional grades, when used together Shell's range of fuel economy driveline lubricants has shown savings of up to 5%.