OEM recommendations driving shift to lighter weight oils

Indian OEMs are recommending lighter viscosity engine oils, such as SAE 5W-30 and SAE 5W-40, for new passenger cars, due to their superior fuel economy characteristics. So while older passenger cars in India are still using heavier grades, such as SAE 20W-40 and SAE 20W-50, the country’s passenger car lubricants market is starting to see a shift towards lighter weight oils, according to U.S.-based consulting and research firm Kline & Company. Although SAE 20W-40 and SAE 20W-50 are still the leading viscosity grades, accounting for 60% to 70% of the passenger car motor oil market in India, this percentage is expected to decline in the next five years, it said. (April 21, 2010)