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Newly developed, low volatility zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) technology significantly reduces the amounts of volatile phosphorus (P) species while retaining their antiwear protective behavior and antioxidant performances. In the past researchers gathered a variety of engine data supporting the hypothesis that P volatility can have a significant impact on catalytic converter efficiency, but corresponding field performance results were limited. A recent field trial was conducted with New York City taxi cabs that provided extended sets of engine and drain performance parameters data. This trial compared side-by-side performance of oils formulated with conventional and low volatility ZDDPs. Following completion of the test, the extensive engine inspections and used oil analysis revealed excellent antiwear control and oxidation inhibition with both types of ZDDP technologies.

With government mandates, original equipment manufacturers are increasingly focusing on fuel economy and finding efficiency gains throughout the vehicle. Lubricant companies have been asked to design fluids that aid in this effort. Demonstrating real gains becomes complex given the intricacies of these systems and methods range from bench top screen tests to component test stands to full vehicle testing. This paper addresses the variation that was encountered when testing automatic transmission fluid efficiency within a full vehicle test. While it is well known that variability in testing conditions such as engine load or vehicle speed will lead to variability in results, the magnitude of their impact on average throughout the test cycle suggests that repeat testing may not be sufficient to guard against improper conclusions.