Engine Fuel & Lubricant News | Engine + Powertrain Technology Magazine

Alpine and Phinia continue Formula 1 and Alpenglow partnership

Zahra Awan — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:29:19 +0000

Phinia and Alpine are continuing to work together to drive innovation in high-performance motorsport and advanced propulsion technologies. Under its aftermarket brand Delphi, Phinia will build on its multi-year collaboration with the BWT Alpine Formula One Team as the sport enters a technically and competitively intense period ahead of the 2026 season. For the second consecutive year, the Delphi logo will appear on the team’s single-seaters and associated commercial assets, reinforcing its presence on the global F1 calendar and its reputation as a trusted automotive aftermarket supplier.

“Motorsport has always been a critical environment for accelerating innovation, and our partnership with Alpine reflects a shared belief in the value of engineering-led progress,” said Todd Anderson, chief technology officer, Phinia. “These programs allow us to develop and validate advanced fuel systems technology under the most demanding conditions, supporting both high-performance applications today and the evolution of future propulsion technologies.”

Accelerating hydrogen internal combustion technology

This partnership further advances Phinia’s role in Alpine’s Alpenglow hydrogen program, aimed at maximizing the performance potential of hydrogen internal combustion engines (H₂ICE) in high-performance applications. Leveraging Phinia’s hydrogen direct injection system, Alpine has progressed its Alpenglow Hy4 concept to the new Hy6 hydrogen engine, marking a key technical milestone. The Alpenglow Hy6 now features a six-cylinder configuration and has reached speeds of up to 312.9km/h during demonstrations at the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship and the 2025 Le Mans 24 Hours.

Pierre-Jean Tardy, chief engineer, hydrogen, Alpine Racing, said, “Motorsport is evolving rapidly and our strive for continuous innovation requires partners who can keep pace, combining long-term vision with proven engineering depth. Phinia is a trusted technical partner for Alpine, and this partnership reflects the confidence we have in their ability to deliver advanced fuel system solutions pioneering hydrogen internal combustion.”

Anderson added, “Our partnership underlines the capability of H₂ICE technology to meet the demands of top-tier motorsport while supporting longer-term decarbonization ambitions. By applying our hydrogen direct injection expertise in a competitive racing environment, we are helping to demonstrate that H₂ICE can deliver performance, efficiency and control at scale – insights that are critical as the industry explores multiple pathways toward lower-carbon propulsion.”

Caterham and Motul unite to power road and race cars

Zahra Awan — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:16:58 +0000

Caterham and Motul have announced the renewal of their partnership, bringing together Caterham’s lightweight sportscar expertise and Motul’s long-standing know-how in high-performance lubrication, built on more than 170 years of experience.

The long-term agreement means that every new Caterham Seven built at the Caterham HQ in Dartford, UK, will have its first fill of lubricants supplied by Motul – from the road-going Caterham 170 to every new race car across all five Caterham Motorsport UK Championships.

As part of the partnership, Motul will also become the title sponsor of the Caterham Seven Championship UK for the 2026 season.

Ali McColl, global head of marketing at Caterham, commented, “This partnership is a significant milestone for Caterham, aligning our brand with a world-renowned leader in lubricants and fluid technology, reinforcing our commitment to performance across both our road and race cars. Motul brings a depth of experience in performance and efficiency that few other partners can offer.

“This agreement also marks an exciting new chapter for Caterham Motorsport. As we look ahead to the 2026 season, we are proud to unveil the Motul Caterham Seven Championship UK as the new name for the pinnacle of Caterham racing in the UK.”

Andreea Culcea, chief brand and communication officer at Motul, stated, “We are proud to renew our partnership with Caterham, a brand renowned for its exceptional sportscar expertise. Since 2019, our collaboration has been driven by shared values of performance, craft and precision. At Motul, we are developing tailor-made solutions designed to unlock the full potential of our partners’ machines. Working alongside a manufacturer like Caterham, where hand-crafted, limited-production cars are born from deep engineering know-how and passion, reflects our vision of authentic partnerships.”

Zahra Awan — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 11:59:52 +0000

XD Thermal Technology has advanced its side-cooling solutions for cylindrical cell-to-pack battery packs, with large-scale production capacity and automotive-grade process control positioning the company as a key supplier, the company says.

Super-fast-charging cylindrical packs contend with heat accumulation during high current/voltage in charging and discharging with high C-rate. XD Thermal’s side liquid-cooling concept routes serpentine tubes along the cell sidewall, increasing effective contact area versus bottom cooling plates. The enlarged vertical contact surface well resolved the challenge of heat gradients in Z-axial direction and eventually enables each individual cell to stay in a much more balanced temperature range, which is considered as a positive factor to maintain a longer life for Li-ion batteries.

XD Thermal has developed a family platform of side-cooled modules and packs built around robust structures and reliable quality assurance methods. Cooling tubes are pitched to match cylindrical cell layouts and can be combined flexibly with different manifolds, brackets and pipelines, while validated flow-path structures and internal design rules keep heat-transfer performance predictable from prototype to mass production.

“Platformized design reduces development cost and time and supports agile development for our customers,” said Guo, a technical engineer at XD Thermal. “With proven solutions of pipeline connections, electrical insulation and geometric combinations, we helped many customers complete side-cooled battery development smoothly.”

“Ramp-up and industrialization matters as much important as product development,” said Sun, head of manufacturing engineering at XD Thermal. In 2024, the company commissioned high-volume serpentine-tube lines with a daily capacity of 30,000 pieces, integrating automated forming, welding, cleaning and 100% leak testing.

“We provide a repeatable, scalable production system with confirmed development roadmap and SOP schedule, giving us proven capability for production ramp-up and line expansion. Normally, production line and toolings preparation could be finished 6-8 weeks before PPAP,” added Sun.

Eneos expands OE-grade fluid line-up for North America

Zahra Awan — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:26:33 +0000

Tokyo-based Eneos has launched four products for the North American market.

Eneos Import ATF Model H Plus is a dedicated automatic transmission fluid engineered for Honda 2.0, 3.0 and 3.1 transmissions, meeting factory-fill requirements for Japanese import applications.

The Eneos AC Compressor Oil Ze-GLES RB100EV is a next-generation, POE-compatible compressor oil for hybrid and electric vehicle HVAC systems; it is compatible with R134a and R1234yf refrigerants and designed to support advanced-efficiency vehicles.

Eneos Eco ATF OE+ is the updated replacement for Eco ATF Plus and has been designed to deliver enhanced low-viscosity performance, broader OEM coverage and superior oxidation stability for extended service life.

Eneos has also expanded the packaging for its X Prime 0W-8 and 0W-16 Fully Synthetic Motor Oils, which are now available in five-quart and six-gallon sizes to offer greater flexibility for professional workshops and import specialist service centers.

“As an OE lubricant supplier, Eneos is committed to delivering the same precision-engineered products trusted by original equipment manufacturers to the aftermarket,” said Hiromi Takahashi, general manager of Eneos Group, Eneos USA.

“These new additions extend our capability to serve advanced transmissions, hybrid and EV systems, and professional workshops that demand factory-fill-quality oils.”

Hyundai and Singapore team up to boost hydrogen and low-carbon tech

Zahra Awan — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 16:57:25 +0000

Hyundai Motor Group has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Economic Development Board (EDB) of Singapore to identify opportunities to develop low-carbon technologies, including hydrogen.

The initiative builds on the existing partnership between Hyundai and EDB through the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore (HMGICS) – Hyundai’s first global open innovation hub and testbed.

Hyundai is exploring various potential collaborations with Singapore-based companies and startups, as well as the potential use of Singapore’s pipeline network for efficient hydrogen distribution, aiming to address logistical challenges and enhance resource efficiency.

“We are excited to collaborate with the EDB to explore new growth areas, including the development of low-carbon technologies,” said Jaeha Park, vice president and head of the global hydrogen business subdivision at Hyundai. “By bringing our cutting-edge expertise in hydrogen technology, this partnership represents a significant step forward in creating a clean-energy future for Singapore. We look forward to driving impactful solutions that demonstrate the potential of hydrogen as a cornerstone of global sustainability.”

EDB will facilitate Hyundai’s participation in relevant initiatives to build up and apply low-carbon technologies, including potential collaborations with local enterprises and innovation partners to drive technological advances.

“This MoU builds on the strong partnership between EDB and Hyundai Motor Group. The collaboration is closely aligned to Singapore’s commitment to developing a low-carbon economy by supporting companies in sustainable technology development. This will strengthen Singapore’s position as a global innovation hub within Hyundai Motor Group’s global network,” said Zheng Jingxin, vice president and head of mobility at the Singapore Economic Development Board.

Hyundai’s mid- to long-term vision extends globally, as it looks to expand the clean hydrogen ecosystem by integrating eco-friendly energy businesses across neighboring countries, focusing on sustainable energy solutions and advanced infrastructure.

UKi Media & Events announces Vehicle Tech Week North America – a landmark automotive technology event in Novi, Michigan

Zahra Awan — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:51:02 +0000

Following the announcement last month of Vehicle Tech Week Europe, UKi Media & Events, part of CloserStill Media, has now unveiled a North American edition of this major new initiative to serve the global vehicle industry. Vehicle Tech Week North America will take place October 27-29, 2026, in Novi, Michigan, marking a significant evolution in how the company connects innovators, suppliers and OEMs across continents.

The initiative has been received with widespread enthusiasm across the automotive sector, with leading OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers and technology innovators citing a clear need for a focused platform that showcases emerging technologies and addresses the evolving challenges facing the industry.

Vehicle Tech Week North America will unite three of UKi Media & Events’ leading automotive technology exhibitions – Automotive Testing Expo, Autonomous Vehicle Tech Expo and Automotive Interiors Expo – under one roof at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi.

While each show will maintain its unique identity, their co-location within Vehicle Tech Week North America will create a positive, collaborative environment that maximizes synergies and delivers greater value for exhibitors and attendees alike. This integrated format will facilitate stronger connections between world-class brands, OEMs, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, engineers, designers, investors and R&D teams.

“The automotive industry is undergoing unprecedented transformation, with technologies and disciplines converging at an accelerating pace,” said Peter Massey, commercial director at UKi Media & Events.

“Vehicle Tech Week North America reflects this reality, offering a unified platform where innovation thrives and partnerships flourish.”

The decision to bring these events together stems from the growing interdependence of testing, autonomy and interior design in modern vehicle development. By aligning these sectors, Vehicle Tech Week North America will provide a richer experience for participants and a more efficient return on investment for exhibitors.

Strategically located in Novi – just minutes from Detroit, the heart of North America’s automotive industry – Vehicle Tech Week North America offers unparalleled access to the region’s OEM headquarters, R&D centers and supplier networks.

Exhibitors and visitors will benefit from proximity to key decision-makers and technical teams, making it easier to forge partnerships, accelerate business opportunities and drive progress in a rapidly evolving market.

As well as serving the core automotive community, the event will actively engage adjacent markets such as off-highway, commercial transportation and defense, all of which are increasingly adopting advanced vehicle technologies. A targeted outreach campaign and new content streams will ensure these sectors are seamlessly integrated, creating fresh growth opportunities for exhibitors.

With 400+ exhibitors expected, Vehicle Tech Week North America will be the key destination for professionals seeking to explore innovative solutions, network with industry leaders and gain insights into the future of automotive technologies.

Industry leaders have commended the strategic vision behind the event, noting its potential to drive meaningful dialog and accelerate innovation across the automotive landscape.

Thorsten Oppermann, director of sales and marketing at dSPACE, commented, “dSPACE is excited to support the launch of Vehicle Tech Week in North America. Uniting Automotive Testing Expo, Autonomous Vehicle Tech Expo and Automotive Interiors Expo under one dynamic umbrella creates a powerful platform for innovation, collaboration and progress across the mobility sector. We look forward to engaging with industry leaders and showcasing how dSPACE continues to drive development in simulation and validation technologies for the vehicles of tomorrow.

“Detroit has always been a cornerstone of automotive innovation, and Vehicle Tech Week brings fresh energy to this legacy,” continued Oppermann. “The integrated format will foster deeper conversations and accelerate the pace of development across the industry. We’re proud to support this initiative and look forward to contributing to its success in North America.”

Francesca Favarò, head of safety best practices at Waymo, added, “Waymo is excited to see UKi Media & Events launch Vehicle Tech Week, bringing together the essential topics of autonomous technology, testing and interiors under one roof. The move recognizes the integrated nature of modern automotive development, and we believe will create powerful new synergies and strengthen the pace and value of innovation across the entire automotive sector.”

“We are delighted to see UKi Media & Events bringing together multiple automotive shows in North America under the umbrella of Vehicle Tech Week North America,” said Marius Dupuis, CEO at ASAM eV. “Combining Automotive Testing Expo, Autonomous Vehicle Tech Expo and Automotive Interiors Expo reflects the industry’s holistic approach to various aspects of vehicle development. We expect Vehicle Tech Week North America to create a comprehensive platform, reflecting the full spectrum of innovation across the broader mobility landscape and enabling industry professionals to engage across disciplines.”

“Collaboration is key to developing next-gen mobility – a philosophy the Autotech Council lives by as we connect automotive leaders with startups,” commented Liz Kerton, Autotech Council’s executive director. “We’re delighted to collaborate with Vehicle Tech Week, because together we can build a stronger ecosystem for the automotive industry.”

For Automotive Testing Expo exhibitor inquiries:
David Hunt
david.hunt@ukimediaevents.com

For Autonomous Vehicle Tech Expo exhibitor inquiries:
Darren Whitehead
darren.whitehead@ukimediaevents.com

For Automotive Interiors Expo exhibitor inquiries:
Aaron Dombey
aaron.dombey@ukimediaevents.com

For Vehicle Tech Week marketing inquiries:
Paul Connelly
paul.connelly@ukimediaevents.com

Honda Racing Corporation debuts racing-inspired consumer engine oil Formula R

Zahra Awan — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 10:37:59 +0000

Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US), the North American racing arm for both Honda and Acura, has launched its first consumer engine oil line, Formula R, designed t to bring race-proven technology from the track to the street.

The HRC Formula R full synthetic motor oils will be available for consumer purchase in the spring of 2026 at Honda and Acura dealerships across the USA. HRC Formula R full synthetic motor oil was developed as a premium product in close collaboration with Phillips 66.

Formula R will be offered in six viscosity grades including 0W-40, the same formulation used in the championship-winning IMSA Civic Type R TCR race car.

“At HRC, we are confident that the Formula R HRC branded oil delivers uncompromising performance and protection,” said Jon Ikeda, senior vice president of HRC US. “Having relied on Phillips 66 in our ARX-06 GTP IMSA race car, we’ve seen firsthand their commitment to excellence. That trust made them the ideal partner to help bring championship-grade performance to our customers.”

Engineered under extreme conditions, HRC Formula R oils deliver thermal stability, wear protection and turbocharged engine performance. Fully compatible with Honda and Acura service programs, HRC Formula R oils meet or exceed API SP and GF-7A standards. Viscosities offered are 0W-16, 0W-20, 0W-40, 5W-20, 5W-30, 10W-30.

BMW launches demo fleet run on vegetable oil and calls for sustainability-led action

Zahra Awan — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 14:31:32 +0000

With over 250 million vehicles currently on Europe’s roads, increasing the share of renewable fuels in fleets offers a major opportunity to reduce CO2 emissions. This week, BMW Group demonstrated a technical solution to prove that all BMW diesels can be fueled exclusively with HVO100. (HVO is hydrotreated vegetable oil, and the 100 suffix indicates that it is 100% pure.)

Martin Kaufmann, head of powertrain development at BMW, said, “Our goal is always to have more environmentally friendly and efficient vehicles on the road. With the diesel replacement fuel HVO100, we have an opportunity to reduce the CO2 footprint of vehicle fleets. Especially in the area of fuels that are not based on fossil fuels, we see potential that we are ready to realize.”

Bernhard Kuhnt, head of sales region Europe at BMW, added, “Fleet customers are extremely important for sales in Europe, and at the same time diesel remains a very good powertrain technology for many fleets. The use of HVO100 offers a way to quickly reduce CO2 emissions that takes into account individual use cases – whether driving long distances or towing a trailer – and can thus help our fleet customers reduce their CO2 footprint.”

Initial contractual agreements with the operators of large BMW diesel fleets in Germany and Italy are imminent, the company has said. These test fleets, together with the internal BMW Group fleet that has already been launched, will provide important data and findings to improve the technical solution.

Since January 2025, all BMW diesel models produced in Germany have been filled with HVO100 before delivery to dealers. Neste MY Renewable Diesel HVO100 is used at the BMW Group plants in Munich, Dingolfing, Regensburg and Leipzig.

The fuel from Finnish manufacturer Neste enables a CO2e reduction of up to 90% well to wheel, compared with fossil diesel. The initial filling at the plants before delivery to BMW Group dealers is five to eight liters, depending on the model.

Regulatory framework conditions must catch up

To accelerate the uptake of renewable fuels across the market, BMW is calling for the Renewable Energy Directive (RED III) – including national quotas that require at least a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from fuels – to be transposed into national law by 2025.

Dr Thomas Becker, head of policy, external relations and sustainability at BMW, stated, “The BMW Group demands that every measure to reduce CO2 emissions is taken into account at every stage of a vehicle’s lifecycle. This also includes the use of renewable fuels – especially for vehicles that primarily run on CO2-neutral fuel (CNF). These must be formally recognized in EU fleet legislation. The fuels are available; what we need now is a pragmatic and quickly implementable regulation that enables companies to develop innovations and make them marketable.”

gulation that enables companies to develop innovations and make them marketable.”