In November 2017, VLS, which stands for Verification of Lubricant Specifications, received a complaint concerning specifications and claims made by Granville Oil & Chemicals about its 5W30 Hypalube Evo.
In particular, it was alleged that the product did not meet its own stated NOACK volatility measure and that its claims for OEM specifications pertaining to VW 504.00/507.00, PSA B71 2290 and GM LL–A/B–025 were unfeasible, as no additive package was currently available to meet those requirements.
VLS procured and tested a sample of the product and found that the product did fail to meet its stated NOACK volatility measure. The VLS technical panel also raised questions about the claims relating to PSA B71 2290 and GM LL-A/B-025.
Once it had been contacted about the case findings, Granville Oil & Chemicals cooperated fully with the investigation, and undertook its own internal investigation. It eventually discontinued the product on 30 June 2018.
David Wright, Secretary of VLS and Chairman of UK Lubricants Association said: “Granville was extremely helpful and accommodating, running its own internal investigation and quickly determining the best outcome for their customers and end users. This case is a perfect example of VLS performing its vital role to maintain standards in the industry and ensure an open and transparent market. Customers must be able to have confidence that the products they purchase really can deliver what is claimed.”