A new grade of heavy-duty diesel engine oil has just been launched by Morris Lubricants. The Versimax HD18 5W-20 was designed to respect the precise requirements of the latest Scania and MAN fuel-efficient HGV engine technology.

Perfectly compliant with Scania LDF-5 and MAN M3977 specifications, the engine oil has received its first orders in just two weeks from being launched. Available in 25 litre drums, 205 litre barrels and in bulk supply, Versimax HD18 5W-20 is already being used in the latest 13-litre Scania engines: DC13 173, DC13 174, DC13 175 and DC13 176. The engine oil can also be used in MAN D26 and D38 models.

“The HGV market has witnessed significant changes in recent years, as internal combustion engines are developed for improved fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.  5W-30 heavy-duty diesel engine formulations are a commonplace option for the major OEMs, but as these companies innovate in the direction of Euro VII compliance, we will witness another step change in oil viscosity levels,” said Adrian Hill, Morris Lubricants’ Technology Manager.

“This is the real difference with our new Versimax HD18 5W-20 heavy-duty diesel engine oil. It has reduced oil film thickness down to passenger car engine oil levels, but for use in commercial HGVs with payloads that clearly far exceed an average road vehicle.”

As a result of this innovative launch, Morris Lubricants has become one of the first providers of lubricants in the UK to commercialise this new ‘ultra-thin’ oil formulation for the haulage sector. With the HGV market moving closer to Euro VII compliance, which is expected to be introduced around 2025, engine technology needs to keep up and offer this sector reductions in diesel particulates, carbon monoxide and NO_x emissions in the exhaust gas stream.

“Inclusive of field trials, it can take years to bring new oils and lubricants to market, particularly engine oils. Here at Morris Lubricants, we have all the necessary raw materials in our inventory, to enable us to move quickly to meet customers’ demand. So, from identifying the initial market need, to assessing the required specification and undertaking our rigorous laboratory testing process, the Versimax HD18 5W-20 was manufactured and the first orders delivered in just two weeks. Scania and MAN are the first OEMs to deliver fleets here in the UK, capable of using these specifications,” concluded Adrian.