WIX ecoLAST oil filters capture dirt and soot like a traditional filter, while utilizing media to sequester the acids in the oil. Current extended drain technologies, such as time release additives, sacrificial elements, on-board refining and bypass filtration, are all limited by build up of acidity levels.

“WIX ecoLAST oil filters are the most significant development in filtration technology adaptation since WIX invented the spin-on oil filter in 1955,” said Keith Wilson, president of Affinia Global Filtration Group. “This new technology represents a significant breakthrough in helping our customers reduce the operating costs of fleets while also supporting a more sustainable environment.”

Typical fleets, which average four oil changes per vehicle per year, can save approximately $100 – $200 per vehicle annually using ecoLAST filters when compared to oil changes using standard oil filters. A mega-fleet with 9,000 vehicles using ecoLAST oil filters can realize a potential annual savings of approximately $1,150,000 by eliminating the need for 5,400 barrels or 226,800 gallons of oil, 18,000 oil filters and approximately 9,000 man hours. A medium-size fleet of 400 vehicles could potentially save more than $51,000, by eliminating the need for 240 barrels of oil, 800 filters and approximately 400 man hours.

“WIX has conducted significant real-world testing during the past 24 months with many of the most popular original equipment diesel engines, from small engines and generators to over-the-road and off-road heavy duty engines, in North America and Europe,” said Norbert Schuermann, vice president original equipment sales and new business development, WIX Filters. “This new filter media was engineered to be the answer to the change from CI-4 to CJ-4 lubricants, because CJ-4 oils contain fewer additives and therefore have reduced acid neutralization capability. Filter media durability and all other components were tested and confirmed to meet these extended drain intervals.”

WIX’s ecoLAST oil filters are a direct replacement with no changes or modification required to the vehicle. The filtration media, which has no similar competition on the market, does not rely on slow release technology. WIX ecoLAST oil filters have proven effective with conventional and synthetic lubes, and works with biodiesel, LPG, gasoline and diesel fuels.

WIX plans to make ecoLAST filters available for heavy-duty over-the-road applications. The first ecoLAST oil filters will become available between February and April 2011 for the following engines: Cummins ISX, Cummins M11, Mack MP8, Detroit DD60, Caterpillar C13 and Caterpillar C15.

“By lowering the quantity of oil we reduce the quantity of energy, or torque, needed to pump the oil, without taking necessary lubrication from the engine,” said Mike Katerberg, assistant chief engineer for your 1.4L. “Reducing the torque demand reduces fuel consumption. It’s a simple, durable, maintenance-free design that we have used in our transmissions for years and more recently in our hybrid vehicles.”

The Ecotec 1.4L turbo is regular on Eco, LT and LTZ models helping the Cruze Eco, using a normal six-speed transmission, obtain an expected segment-leading estimated 40 mpg on the road.

The advantages of the variable displacement oil pump boost when combined with other technologies like variable valve timing which operate using oil pressure. Variable valve timing adjusts the engine valves’ buying and selling timing for optimal performance, fuel efficiency and emissions through the rpm band – including greater low-rpm torque.

The all-new 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will start arriving in U.S. dealerships this September, starting at $16,995, including destination. Priced to compete in the compact-car segment, the Cruze provides more interior room, more miles per gallon in the Eco model, and much more standard security features than any of its competitors.