Shell Rotella launches ‘What is PC-12?’ information hub

Shell Rotella recently launched the “What is PC-12?” knowledge hub, a new educational resource designed to help fleets, owner-operators, and industry professionals understand the upcoming API PC-12 diesel engine oil category.

As heavy-duty diesel engines evolve to meet new performance demands and emissions regulations, PC-12 (Proposed Category 12) will represent the next generation of oil standards, following the current API CK-4 and FA-4 specifications, Shell reported. The new category, expected to be licensed by the American Petroleum Institute (API) in January 2027, will ensure that future engine oils meet stricter durability, efficiency, and emissions requirements.

“API PC-12 will be an important change for diesel engines that operate in trucks,” Julie Wright, Shell Rotella North American brand manager, said in a news release. “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 is PC-12? serves as a central hub for:

• Understanding the PC-12 journey: How category development began, key milestones, and what’s next in the process.
• Technical insights: What performance improvements are being evaluated and how PC-12 oils will help protect next-generation diesel engines.
• Educational content: Articles, FAQs, and expert perspectives on the evolution of heavy duty engine oil standards.
• Industry readiness: Guidance for fleets and drivers on planning for the transition once PC-12 is introduced.

“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.”