Shell Rotella has rolled out a new online resource designed to keep truck drivers and fleets ahead of the curve on the next big change in diesel engine oil, API PC-12.
The new “What Is PC-12?” knowledge hub breaks down what’s coming, why it matters, and how drivers and shop owners can get ready before the new oil category hits the market.
“API PC-12 will be an important change for diesel engines that operate in trucks,” said Julie Wright, Shell Rotella North American brand manager. Shell Rotella wants to help ensure fleets, owner-operators, technicians, and consumers have an easy-to-understand resource that explains what’s changing, why it matters, and how to prepare for the new engine oils. We aim to support the industry through this transition, just as we’ve done with previous category changes.”
What truckers need to know about PC-12
If you’ve been around long enough to remember the switch to CK-4 and FA-4 oils, this is the next evolution in that process. PC-12 (Proposed Category 12) is the American Petroleum Institute’s upcoming oil standard for heavy-duty diesel engines.
It’s being developed to meet tougher emissions rules, higher engine efficiency needs, and stricter durability standards for the next generation of trucks hitting the road in the next few years.
The API expects PC-12 to be officially licensed by January 2027, meaning the oil you’re using today will eventually be replaced by new blends built to handle hotter-running, cleaner-burning diesel engines.
Inside the “What Is PC-12?” knowledge hub
Shell Rotella’s new hub lays out what this all means in plain English. It includes sections like:
- The PC-12 Journey: How the new standard came about, what testing is being done, and where things stand in the development process.
- Technical Insights: Details on how PC-12 oils are being tested to protect modern engines from wear and heat while maintaining fuel efficiency.
- Educational Tools: Easy-to-read articles, FAQs, and insights from Shell’s technical experts.
- Industry Readiness: Step-by-step advice for fleets, shop owners, and drivers on how to prepare once PC-12 becomes the new standard.
Shell’s focus: helping drivers stay ahead
“We are dedicated to ensuring that Shell Rotella oils meet the new specifications set by API and the needs of our customers,” Shell Rotella said in a media release. “‘What is PC-12?’ will help ensure that customers have the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions as the new category approaches.”
Shell says it’s not just adapting to new emission standards, it’s looking at PC-12 as a chance to improve engine protection, performance, and longevity for today’s and tomorrow’s trucks.
“At Shell Lubricants, we view PC-12 not just as an update to meet changing emissions standards, but as an opportunity to advance engine protection and efficiency,” said Karin Haumann, Shell OEM technical manager and chairperson of the API New Category Development Team. “What is PC-12? Underscores our continued commitment to supporting the vital people who keep our world moving.”
Bottom line for truckers
The takeaway is simple. PC-12 is the next big leap in diesel oil, and Shell Rotella’s new resource is built to make the transition smooth for everyone from single-truck owner-operators to nationwide fleets.
Image Source: Shell Rotella
Source: The Trucker
