7. Conclusion

Developing an engine oil is a complex and costly operation. First and foremost, it must take into account the ever-increasing demands placed on engines by new technologies and operating conditions. It must also comply with economic and environmental imperatives such as reducing fuel consumption and, consequently, CO ₂ emissions, drastically reducing exhaust pollutant emissions, limiting oil consumption, the often excessive lengthening of oil change intervals, etc.

These various constraints are taken into account in the classifications and specifications of major organizations such as the European ACEA, the American SAE and API, and the Japanese JAMA. These standards are drawn up by technical committees bringing together engine manufacturers, suppliers of finished lubricants (oil groups and lubricant manufacturers), general...