ConocoPhillips Co.will upgrade selected conventional motor oils to synthetic blends, beginning Aug. 16, 2004, with its 5W-20 and 5W-30 mainline conventional oils.
The new synthetic blend oils will be offered at conventional motor oil prices.
The initiative began as the company commenced reformulating its products to meet the latest ILSAC GF-4 specification, according to Scott McQueen, director of automotive products for ConocoPhillips Lubricants. "GF-4 opened the door for us to utilize our strong base oil technology and consider a strategic upgrade of our products.
McQueen says the upgrades offer fast lubes, repair shops, tire stores and car dealers "a significant advantage in the marketplace and provides their customers peace of mind in a time of changing specifications."
Thanks to the GF-4 standards, the new oils will offer enhanced fuel economy, emission systems protection, deposit and oxidation control compared to the conventional oils they are replacing. The benefits of synthetic blend oils vs. conventional oils also comes into play, resulting in improved viscosity and oxidation control beyond that of GF-4; better low temperature flow properties; improved engine cleanliness; and reduced oil consumption.
The following ConocoPhillips SAE 5W-20 and 5W30 motor oils are included in the synthetic blend upgrade:
* Kendall GT-1 High Performance.
* Phillips 66 TropArtic.
* 76 Super.
* Conoco Super All Season.
The company intends to convert its 10W-30 grade oils by spring 2005.
The product upgrades will be supported by an integrated marketing campaign that includes trade media advertising, direct mail and collateral.
