ROWE has officially launched SUNSPEED, a biosynthetic-based engine oil that delivers enhanced performance without compromising on sustainability, the company said.
Attendees of Automechanika Frankfurt got an up-close look at the product from Otto Botz, ROWE’s expert for sustainable lubricants, at Automechanika Frankfurt’s Academy Stage.
The company’s innovation aims to redefine consumer expectations by proving that eco-friendly choices can also offer superior engine protection and efficiency.
From racetracks to public roads
The inception of SUNSPEED dates back more than a decade, originating from ROWE’s pursuit of performance excellence in motorsports rather than an initial focus on environmental sustainability. ROWE’s journey with bio-based oils began in its racing cars. “We recognized early on that certain bio-derived base oils offered significant performance advantages over traditional mineral and synthetic oils,” said Botz.
“We started testing these bio-based oils in our race cars many years ago,” Botz added. “At that time, the focus wasn’t on sustainability—on the racetrack 10 years ago, nobody talked about sustainability—it was all about performance, and these oils delivered.”
ROWE integrated these bio-based oils into their race cars due to their exceptional properties. The success on the track provided a solid foundation for developing a consumer-grade product that offers the same high-performance benefits.
Engine protection and efficiency
SUNSPEED stands out due to its unique formulation, which provides several key advantages, ROWE says.
- Low volatility: The oil’s reduced tendency to evaporate at high temperatures means less oil thickening and more stable viscosity, ensuring consistent engine performance over time.
- Enhanced thermal conductivity: Improved heat capacity allows the oil to more effectively remove heat from the engine, a critical factor for both high-performance vehicles and everyday driving conditions.
- Superior oxidative stability: The bio-based components offer better resistance to oxidation, potentially allowing for longer intervals between oil changes while maintaining engine integrity.
These benefits translate into tangible performance improvements, such as reduced oil consumption and better fuel efficiency, addressing common concerns among vehicle owners, especially those driving high-performance European cars like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz, says Botz, ROWE’s sustainability expert.
Changing perceptions about bio-based products
One of the hurdles ROWE aims to overcome is the skepticism surrounding bio-based products. Many consumers associate “bio” with lower quality or compromised performance. ROWE is actively working to shift this narrative by providing evidence of SUNSPEED’s superior capabilities through lab tests and real-world racing applications.
ROWE’s team understands that consumers might be hesitant, fearing that a sustainable product won’t meet their performance expectations. With SUNSPEED, ROWE says it’s not asking them to make a sacrifice.
“You can have a higher-performing product that is also sustainable without sacrificing any of the performance,” says Ken Mooney, President of ROWE USA. “You’re actually gaining performance compared to some of the other stuff out there. I think the story to tell in the U.S. is that you can help a little bit by protecting the environment and you’re not sacrificing anything.”
Botz also emphasized that the additional cost to the consumer is minimal. “When you consider you only change your oil once a year, the extra cost is maybe equivalent to a single tank of fuel over the whole year,” he said.
Global availability of SUNSPEED
Since its release in mid-August, SUNSPEED has been introduced in several key markets, including Germany, other parts of Central Europe, Asia and is now making its way to the United States.
Overview OF ROWE SUNSPEED
High-performance, 100% biosynthetic motor oil from renewable resources
Key features:
- 100% Biosynthetic Base: Made entirely from biomass, with no fossil-origin mineral oils.
- Sustainable performance: Eco-friendly without compromising engine efficiency.
- Wide viscosity range: Suitable for various brands and models.
- Full compatibility: Safe to mix with conventional motor oils.
Benefits:
- Excellent Cold-Start Properties: Optimizes fuel consumption.
- Minimal Evaporation Losses: Ensures consistent oil quality.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Ideal for turbochargers and hybrid vehicles.
- Reduced Oil Consumption: Due to low evaporation rates.
Environmental Impact:
- Negative Carbon Footprint: Approximately -0.50 kg CO₂-equivalent per kilogram of base oil.
- Renewable Resources: Plants absorb more CO₂ than emitted during production.
- Eco-Friendly Packaging: Containers made from over 50% recycled materials.
- CO₂ Compensation: Products are fully CO₂-compensated.
Performance Highlights:
- Up to 47% Lower Volatility than current OEM requirements.
- Up to 62% Better Engine Protection against high-temperature deposits.
- Up to 41% Enhanced Turbocharger Efficiency over standard API SP oils.
Certifications & specifications:
- ACEA: A1/B1, A3/B4, C2, C3, C5, C6
- API: SN/CF, SP RC/SN PLUS RC
- Manufacturer approvals: BMW Longlife, Chrysler MS-12145, Fiat, Ford WSS, GM dexos2/dexosD, ILSAC GF-5/-6A, Jaguar Land Rover, MB Specifications, Porsche, PSA, Renault
For more information on ROWE SUNSPEED, visit the company’s website.
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