The Fleet Lead What to expect from PC-12 engine oils with Shell's Karin Haumann
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Jan 12, 2026 Karin Haumann, the OEM Technical Manager for Shell Rotella and chair of the API New Category development team, dives into the future of heavy-duty engine oils. She discusses the upcoming PC-12 specification, designed to enhance engine reliability and performance while meeting stricter EPA emissions rules. Karin explains how the transition from older oil categories like CK-4 and FA-4 will improve thermal resistance and elongate oil change intervals by potentially 10–15,000 miles. She shares insights on industry collaboration and the critical importance of careful inventory planning during this rollout.
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How CL‑4 And FB‑4 Differ
- CL-4 will be the backward-compatible successor to CK-4, while FB-4 extends lower-viscosity options.
- FB-4 targets even lower viscosities like 5W20 and 0W20 to enable fuel-economy gains.
Collaborative, Phased Development Process
- API category development is collaborative across OEMs, oil marketers, additive suppliers, and ASTM committees.
- The process includes a technology demonstration year and a mandatory waiting/qualification year before licensing.
Prepare For The Qualification Window
- Plan inventory and qualification schedules to hit the first licensing date and avoid last-minute shortages.
- Use the mandatory waiting period to run required engine and lab tests and prepare product launches.