As the trucking industry braces for the next major shift in diesel engine oil standards, Shell Rotella is stepping up to help fleets and technicians stay informed.
On November 3, 2025, Shell announced the launch of “What is PC-12? Knowledge Hub,” a new online resource designed to explain the upcoming API PC-12 category and its implications for heavy-duty diesel engines.
PC-12—short for Proposed Category 12—is set to replace the current API CK-4 and FA-4 specifications. It’s being developed to meet the demands of modern diesel engines, which are evolving to comply with tougher emissions regulations and performance expectations.
The new category is expected to be officially licensed by the American Petroleum Institute (API) in January 2027.
“API PC-12 will be an important change for diesel engines that operate in trucks,” explained 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.”
The What is PC-12? Knowledge Hub is structured to serve as a central destination for:
- Understanding the PC-12 Journey: A timeline of how the category was developed, key milestones, and what lies ahead.
- Technical Insights: Details on performance improvements under evaluation and how PC-12 oils will protect next-generation diesel engines.
- Educational Content: Articles, FAQs, and expert perspectives on the evolution of heavy-duty engine oil standards.
- Industry Readiness: Practical guidance for fleets and drivers on how to prepare for the transition.
Shell Lubricants is positioning itself at the forefront of this transition, ensuring that its Rotella products will meet the new API specifications while continuing to serve the needs of both current and future engine technologies.
“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.”
The launch of the Knowledge Hub reflects Shell’s broader commitment to education and transparency in an industry that’s constantly evolving. By providing accessible, expert-driven content, Shell hopes to ease the transition for those who rely on diesel engines every day—from service truck operators to fleet managers and independent technicians.
For more information, visit the What is PC-12? Knowledge Hub (https://rotella.shell.com/en_us/info-hub/pc-12.html) and follow Shell Rotella on social media for ongoing updates.