Synthetic Automotive Engine Oil Industry Analysis in India

India Synthetic Automotive Engine Oil Industry Outlook (2024 to 2034)

Fact.MR, in its newly published study, says that the India synthetic automotive engine oil industry is pegged at US$ 654.3 million in 2024. The landscape is forecasted to increase at 4.1% CAGR and reach an industry value of US$ 1,106.8 million by the end of 2034.

The India synthetic automotive engine oil ecosystem is expected to experience growth opportunities in emerging economies, attributed to the consumer shift towards premium products, particularly high quality synthetic engine oils, which is driven by a growing awareness of the importance of vehicle maintenance, performance, and longevity. Consumers are willing to invest in superior lubricants that offer enhanced protection for their engines, as they become more discerning.

Consumers are increasingly concerned about the longevity and performance of their vehicles. High quality synthetic engine oils are designed to provide superior protection, reducing wear and tear on engine components. The use of premium synthetic oils contributes to improved engine cleanliness, efficient lubrication, and overall enhanced performance.

Consumers are increasingly concerned about fuel efficiency, not only for cost savings but also for environmental reasons. Premium synthetic engine oils are engineered to reduce friction and improve overall engine efficiency, contributing to better fuel economy. The use of synthetic oils aligns with the desire of consumers to maximize miles per gallon and reduce their carbon footprint.

Report Attributes	Details
India Synthetic Automotive Engine Oil Industry Size (2024E)	US$ 654.3 million
Forecasted Industry Value (2034F)	US$ 1,106.8 million
Industry Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	4.1% CAGR
West India Industry Share (2034F)	25.5%
Demand Growth in South India (2024 to 2034)	6.2% CAGR
West India Industry Value (2034F)	US$ 282.2 million
Demand for Full Synthetic Engine Oil (2034F)	US$ 244.6 million
Revenue Share of Group III Base Oil Segment (2034F)	24.3%
Key Companies Profiled	Indian Oil Corporation Limited; HPCL; BPCL; Castrol Ltd.; Savita Oil; Shell PLC; Valvoline Inc.; Amsoil Inc.; Gulf Oil International; ExxonMobil Corporation

Which Industry Trends are Opening New Opportunities for Manufacturers?

“Increasing Vehicle Ownership to Fuel the Industry Growth”

The increasing vehicle ownership in India, driven by a growing middle class and rising disposable income, has significant implications for various industries, including the automotive lubricants sector. The expanding middle class in India has experienced a rise in disposable income. More individuals, as a result can afford to purchase and maintain vehicles, leading to a surge in vehicle ownership.

More people can afford to buy vehicles, ranging from two-wheelers to four wheelers, with an increase in disposable income. The trend is evident in the rising sales figures of automobiles across various segments. Urbanization and the need for efficient commuting options further drive the demand for personal vehicles. Individuals find it necessary to own vehicles for daily commuting, as cities expand, contributing to the overall growth in vehicle ownership.

“Rising Automotive Industry to Accelerate the Industry Growth”

The expansion and growth of the automotive industry in India have significant implications for various sectors, particularly for those involved in supplying products and services to support the functioning and maintenance of vehicles. One critical component is lubricants, especially high performance ones like synthetic engine oils. The automotive industry in India has witnessed substantial growth in the production of various types of vehicles, including passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and two wheelers.

Growing demand for vehicles, both domestically and internationally, has led to increased manufacturing activities by automobile companies. The automotive industry is characterized by continuous technological advancements, with manufacturers incorporating more sophisticated and high performance engines into their vehicles. Modern engines often operate under higher temperatures and stress levels, necessitating lubricants that can withstand these conditions and provide superior protection.

“Awareness of Engine Protection to Contribute Significantly”

The awareness among consumers about the advantages of synthetic engine oils plays a crucial role in driving the adoption of these lubricants. Consumers, over conventional alternatives, are more likely to choose synthetic engine oils, including improved engine protection, enhanced fuel efficiency, and extended drain intervals, as they become more informed about the benefits associated with them.

Consumers are also becoming increasingly aware of the importance of engine protection for the longevity and optimal performance of their vehicles. Synthetic engine oils are known for their superior lubricating properties, including better viscosity stability, reduced friction, and enhanced wear protection. The heightened level of protection is particularly crucial for modern, high performance engines that operate under demanding conditions.

Which Factor is Restraining the Demand for India Synthetic Automotive Engine Oil?

“Price Sensitivity to Restrain the Industry Growth”

Price sensitivity is a significant factor that influences consumers choices, particularly when it comes to automotive maintenance products like engine oils. The cost difference between synthetic engine oils and conventional oils can be a key consideration for price sensitive consumers.

Some consumers may perceive synthetic oils as overpriced, especially if they do not fully understand the technological advancements and performance benefits associated with these lubricants. Lack of clear communication about the reasons for the higher cost, such as superior protection and extended oil change intervals, is expected to hamper the growth of the industry.

What Strategy Should Start-ups Incorporate to Enhance Their Presence in the Industry?

“Advancements in Technology is Key to Gaining Competitive Edge”

Technological advancements in lubricant technology have been instrumental in the continuous improvement of synthetic oils, enhancing their performance characteristics and making them more effective for various applications, especially in the automotive and industrial sectors. Viscosity is a crucial property of lubricants, representing their resistance to flow. A higher viscosity index indicates that the oil's viscosity changes less with temperature variations.

High operating temperatures in modern engines and machinery demand lubricants with excellent thermal stability. Synthetic oils excel in this regard due to their advanced formulations. Ongoing research and development efforts focus on creating synthetic oils that can withstand extreme temperatures without breaking down or forming deposits. Improved thermal stability ensures effective lubrication even in demanding and high-temperature environments.

Region-wise Insights

Fact.MR, a market research and competitive intelligence provider, asserts in its newly published study that South India is predicted to hold a 15.8% share of the Indian industry by 2034. South India has an ecosystem for premium and high performance vehicles, and consumers of these vehicles often seek superior lubricants to ensure optimal engine performance. The trend is expected to contribute to the demand for synthetic engine oils.

What is the Scenario of the Industry in South India?

“Increasing Urbanization and Economic Development to Augment the Growth”

Attribute	South India
Industry Value (2024E)	US$ 95.5 million
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	6.2% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 174.9 million

South India is predicted to account for 15.8% of the Indian industry by 2034. South India is witnessing rapid urbanization and economic development, leading to a rise in disposable income and lifestyle improvements. The economic growth is likely to contribute to increased vehicle ownership and the demand for automotive lubricants, including synthetic engine oils.

There will be a corresponding increase in the demand for automotive lubricants in South India, as more people in acquire vehicles. The synthetic engine oil industry is expected to benefit from the growing penetration of vehicles in the region.

South India generally experiences moderate climatic conditions, which may create a favorable environment for the adoption of synthetic engine oils. The oils are known for their stable performance across a range of temperatures.

What is Projected to Propel Demand for India Synthetic Automotive Engine Oil in West India?

“E-Commerce Expansion to Enhance Industry Prospects”

Attribute	West India
Industry Value (2024E)	US$ 195.6 million
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	3.7% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 282.2 million

West India is anticipated to hold a 25.5% share by 2034. Modern vehicles, especially those equipped with advanced engines, often require synthetic engine oils to ensure optimal performance. The demand for synthetic oils is anticipated to increase, as technology continues to advance in the automotive sector.

Improvements in infrastructure, such as better road networks and increased availability of automotive services, can contribute to higher vehicle usage and maintenance requirements, benefiting the synthetic engine oil landscape.

The growth of automotive service centers and the availability of skilled mechanics can positively influence the adoption of synthetic engine oils. Service providers may recommend or use synthetic oils during maintenance and repairs.

Category-wise Insights

Based on product type, the demand for India synthetic automotive engine oil is projected to rise significantly in the full synthetic engine oil segment. Full synthetic engine oils have excellent low temperature fluidity, ensuring better cold start performance, which is particularly important in regions with diverse climates, contributing to easier engine starts and reduced wear during cold conditions.

Attribute	Full Synthetic Engine Oil
Segment Value (2024E)	US$ 148.5 million
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	5.0% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 244.6 million

The full synthetic engine oil segment of India synthetic automotive engine oil is forecasted to hold 22.1% of the industry share by 2034. Full synthetic engine oils offer superior lubrication properties, enhancing engine performance by reducing friction and wear. The improved performance can be a significant driver for consumers seeking better overall engine efficiency.

Full synthetic engine oils typically have longer service life and extended drain intervals compared to conventional oils. The characteristic appeals to consumers looking for cost-effective solutions and reduced maintenance frequency.

Which Base Oil Type of the Industry is Set to Occupy a Leading Industry Share?

“Group III Base Oil Segment is Expected to be the Dominant Base Oil Type”

Attribute	Group III Base Oil
Segment Value (2024E)	US$ 155.1 million
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	4.6% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 269.0 million

The group III base oil segment is predicted to occupy a 24.3% share of the Indian industry by 2034. Group III base oils exhibit a higher viscosity index compared to lower-grade base oils, and this characteristic allows the lubricants formulated with group III base oils to maintain their viscosity and lubricating properties across a wide temperature range, contributing to improved engine performance.

Group III base oils offer enhanced oxidation stability, which means they resist breaking down and forming deposits even under high temperature conditions, which leads to cleaner engines and longer oil life. Group III base oils have low volatility, reducing the likelihood of oil consumption and emissions. The property is particularly beneficial in modern engines where lower oil consumption is desired.

Competitive Landscape

Key players in the India synthetic automotive engine oil sector are implementing various strategies to attain their objectives. The approaches encompass promoting innovation, implementing rigorous quality control measures for their products, establishing strategic partnerships, optimizing supply chain management systems, and continually advancing their products and technologies.

Recent Development

In 2022, Shell launched a used oil management service as part of a new initiative aimed at organizing India's waste oil disposal infrastructure and improving re-refining rates. The company established partnerships with used oil refiners, to initiate the collection and re-refining of used oil throughout India. The collaborative efforts are geared towards advancing the circular economy within the lubricants industry.

Indian Oil Corporation Limited, HPCL, BPCL, Castrol Ltd., Savita Oil, Shell PLC, Valvoline Inc., Amsoil Inc., Gulf Oil International, ExxonMobil Corporation, are key players in the industry.

Segmentation of India Synthetic Automotive Engine Oil Industry Research

• By Product Type :

  • Full Synthetic Engine Oil
  • Synthetic Blend Engine Oil
  • High Mileage Synthetic Engine Oil
  • Racing Synthetic Engine Oil
  • Others

• By Base Oil Type :

  • Group III Base Oil
  • Group IV Base Oil
  • Group V Base Oil

• By Region :

  • North India
  • South India
  • East India
  • West India