In the spring of 2016, Taxi 2412, the most active player in the comfort and economy class taxi market, began to use Shell Helix Ultra engine oil in the engines of all its cars (3000 units). At the same time, operational tests of 15 Skoda Octavia 1.6 MPI vehicles owned by Taxi 2412 started. The engine oil change interval was in accordance with the recommendations of the automaker - 15, 000 km.
“If the engine fails, replacing it costs half the cost of the car itself. Accordingly, we must use the best components and supplies. This strategy is paying off, and by the end of 2017 we plan to increase the fleet to 5, 000 cars,”explains Mikhail Martynov, Deputy General Director of Taxi 2412.
During the tests, Shell technical experts, together with Taxi 2412, carried out endoscopic engine tests, used oil samples, and a complete laboratory study of all samples using the Shell LubeAnalyst service.
The test results showed that Shell Helix Ultra engine oil maintains a stable viscosity and effective detergent-neutralizing properties throughout the entire replacement interval, and also provides reliable protection against wear even in extreme operating conditions.
The technical results were largely achieved thanks to the use of Shell PurePlus natural gas base oil in Shell Helix Ultra. Base oil from natural gas does not contain impurities that are found in oil from oil, and its molecules are more resistant to harsh operating conditions.
Viscosity and temperature characteristics are normal
Viscosity is one of the most important characteristics of engine oil; the ability of a lubricant to reduce friction and wear rate depends on it. In the process, engine oil is oxidized as a result of chemical exposure to oxygen, high temperatures and products of incomplete combustion of fuel, which contributes to an increase in its viscosity. This can lead to oil starvation and, as a result, premature engine wear.
Large stock of neutralizing properties of Shell Helix Ultra engine oil
An equally important task of engine oil is to ensure the cleanliness of engine parts throughout the entire oil change interval, preventing the formation of various deposits and neutralizing acids. The effectiveness of the cleaning properties is ensured by a stable base oil, resistant to degradation, as well as special additives.
Reliable wear protection
The anti-wear properties of Shell Helix Ultra engine oil in the framework of technical tests were evaluated by the value of the content of wear elements - iron and copper.
Shell Helix Ultra’s effective anti-wear performance was also confirmed through endoscopic examination, which allowed for thorough inspection and photographing, followed by an assessment of the internal condition of engine parts.
“Technical tests have confirmed that we have chosen truly effective engine oils for the after-sales service of all our vehicles. This ensures uninterrupted operation of the vehicle fleet even in extreme conditions of using the car as a taxi,”sums up Mikhail Martynov.
