Automotive Lubricants Market Size:
Automotive Lubricants Market Size is estimated to reach over USD 95.84 Billion by 2032 from a value of USD 17.55 Billion in 2024 and is projected to grow by USD 17.91 Billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2025 to 2032.
Automotive Lubricants Market Scope & Overview:
Automotive lubricants are essential fluids and greases designed to reduce friction, wear, and heat between moving parts within a vehicle. These lubricants include engine oils, transmission fluids, and greases, serve multiple functions, such as cooling, cleaning, and protecting against corrosion. By creating a protective film between surfaces, they ensure smooth operation, extend component lifespan, and contribute to overall vehicle efficiency.
How is AI Transforming the Automotive Lubricants Market?
AI is playing a crucial role in the automotive lubricants market, particularly in areas involving predictive maintenance, manufacturing optimization, and product development. Additionally, AI-powered systems analyze data from sensors and other sources to predict potential equipment failures, optimize lubricant formulations for specific engines, and improve the efficiency of lubricant manufacturing processes.
The integration of AI technologies is transforming lubricant manufacturing facilities, facilitating automated systems for blending, packaging, and quality control. Further, AI-powered tools can monitor lubricant production processes in real-time, which ensures that lubricant formulations meet stringent quality standards. Therefore, the above factors are expected to positively impact the market growth in upcoming years.
Automotive Lubricants Market Dynamics - (DRO) :
Key Drivers:
Increasing use of commercial vehicles for transporting goods is driving the automotive lubricants market growth
Commercial vehicles, such as trucks and delivery vans, are used for longer distances and under heavier loads compared to personal vehicles, which leads to wear and tear on engine components, transmissions, and other moving parts. Additionally, the growth of e-commerce and global trade is leading to a surge in demand for logistics services, which rely on commercial vehicles, hence driving the automotive lubricants market. Moreover, commercial vehicles operate in harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures and rough terrains, which necessitate the use of specialized lubricants that can withstand such environment. Subsequently, the rising number of commercial vehicles is contributing notably in boosting the automotive lubricants market size.
- For instance, according to Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), in the fiscal year 2023-24, India's commercial vehicle market saw a marginal overall increase in sales, rising from 9.62 lakh to 9.68 lakh units. This growth was driven by a notable uptick in Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicle sales, which climbed from 3.59 lakh to 3.73 lakh units.
Consequently, increasing use of commercial vehicles for transporting goods is driving the automotive lubricants market expansion.
Key Restraints:
Environmental impact of automotive lubricants poses a significant restraint on market growth
Traditional lubricants, derived from mineral oils, contribute to environmental pollution through oil leaks, spills, and improper disposal, which contaminates soil and water sources, harming ecosystems. Emissions from burning lubricants also contribute to air pollution, including the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter. Governments worldwide are implementing stricter environmental regulations to reduce pollution and promote sustainability. This forces lubricant manufacturers to develop eco-friendly alternatives, which can increase production costs.
Therefore, these combined factors are significantly hindering automotive lubricants market expansion.
Future Opportunities :
Development of lubricants with high-temperature performance and wear protection is projected to create automotive lubricants market opportunities
High-temperature performance lubricants withstand extreme heat generated in high-performance engines, which reduces thermal breakdown and extends the lifespan of engine components. Additionally, superior wear minimizes friction, further contributing to engine durability and reducing the need for costly repairs. Furthermore, lubricants with lower friction characteristics enhance fuel efficiency by reducing energy losses within the engine and transmission, aligning with the growing need for fuel efficiency. Moreover, advanced engines, including turbocharged and direct-injection engines, operate at higher temperatures and pressures. Lubricants are essential to ensure optimal performance and protection in these environments, further boosting the automotive lubricants market demand.
- For instance, Castrol EDGE Extended Performance is a synthetic motor oil boasting significantly enhanced protection and longevity. It has been rigorously tested and shown to provide 50 times better high-temperature performance and six times better wear protection than industry standards. Additionally, it offers three times the resistance to viscosity breakdown compared to leading full-synthetic oils, allowing for an extended oil change interval of up to 25,000 miles.
Hence, based on the analysis, development of lubricants with superior high-temperature performance and wear protection is expected to create automotive lubricants market opportunities.
Automotive Lubricants Market Segmental Analysis :
By Oil Type:
Based on the oil type, the market is classified into synthetic, semi-synthetic, and conventional.
Trends in the Oil Type:
- Growing trend towards adoption of low-viscosity synthetic oils to maximize fuel efficiency and meet the demands of high-performance engines.
- Semi-synthetic oils balance the performance benefits of synthetic oils with the affordability of conventional oils.
Conventional Oil accounted for the largest revenue share of 44.49% in 2024.
- Conventional oils remain fundamental for older vehicle models that were designed to operate with these types of lubricants, thus fuelling the market.
- Also, conventional oils are cheaper in comparison to synthetic oils, suitable for budget-conscious consumers and those maintaining older vehicles.
- Conventional oil formulations are being improved through advancements in additive technology, allowing for better performance and extended drain intervals, thus boosting the automotive lubricants market.
- Thus, as per the analysis, the aforementioned factors are driving the market demand.
Synthetic Oil is predicted to register the fastest progress during the forecast period.
- Modern engines, especially turbocharged and high-performance engines, operate at higher temperatures and pressures. Synthetic oils are designed to withstand these extreme conditions, providing superior protection and performance.
- Governments worldwide are implementing stricter emission standards, compelling manufacturers to improve fuel efficiency. Synthetic oils contribute to better fuel economy by reducing friction and improving engine performance, accelerating the market.
- Synthetic oils offer longer oil drain intervals compared to conventional oils, reducing maintenance costs and downtime for vehicle owners.
- For instance, in January 2024, Valvoline Global released a new premium full synthetic motor oil called Restore & Protect, designed to significantly clean engines. The innovative product aims to eliminate up to 100% of harmful engine deposits with consistent use, effectively restoring engine performance to a like-new state and providing ongoing protection against future deposit buildup.
- In conclusion, as per the analysis, the above-mentioned factors are contributing notably in accelerating the automotive lubricants market trend.
By Product Type:
Based on the product type, the market is classified into engine oil, gear oil, transmission fluids, brake fluids, coolants, and greases.
Trends in Product Type:
- Increasing trend for advanced transmission fluids, such as dual-clutch transmissions (DCTs) and continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) to provide improved friction control and shift performance.
- Growing trend towards adopting low-viscosity brake fluids to improve response time and performance in advanced braking systems.
Engine Oil accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024.
- Modern engines require high-quality engine oils that meet stringent performance and emissions standards, driving the need for advanced formulations, including synthetic and semi-synthetic oils.
- Growing emphasis on engine oils that improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, driven by regulatory requirements.
- Further, the emergence of biosynthetic engine oils is also spurring the automotive lubricants market size.
- For instance, in September 2024, ROWE launched ROWE SUNSPEED, a fully synthetic engine oil. The innovative product is derived entirely from plant biomass, offering a sustainable alternative without sacrificing high performance and stability.
- Therefore, the aforementioned benefits are bolstering the automotive lubricants market trend.
Greases are predicted to register the fastest growth during the forecast period.
- Increasing complexity of modern vehicles raises the need for high-performance greases with enhanced properties like improved wear resistance, corrosion protection, and thermal stability.
- Polyurea-based greases are favoured for their excellent high-temperature performance, ideal for automotive applications.
- Stringent environmental regulations and a growing focus on sustainability are driving the need for synthetic and bio-based greases.
- For instance, in June 2023, IndianOil introduced SERVO Grease Miracle, a new premium automotive grease that presents a high-performance alternative to traditional lithium-based greases. This innovative product represents a significant advancement in the lubricant industry, offering enhanced reliability for automotive applications.
- In conclusion, as per the automotive lubricants market analysis, the above-mentioned factors are collectively responsible in driving the grease segment.
By Vehicle Type:
Based on the vehicle type, the market is classified into passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles.
Trends in the Vehicle Type:
- Growing trend towards adoption of greases that can withstand higher temperatures and pressures in passenger vehicles, with their complex systems.
- Commercial vehicles, such as trucks and buses, operate under heavy loads and demanding conditions, requiring greases that offer exceptional longevity.
Passenger Vehicles accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024 and is also predicted to register the fastest growth.
- Hybrid vehicles combine ICE and electric powertrains, requiring a blend of traditional and specialized lubricants, thus fuelling the automotive lubricants market share.
- Increasing popularity of SUVs requires heavy-duty lubricants due to their larger engines and increased load capacity.
- Synthetic lubricants offer superior performance and longer drain intervals, driving their adoption across all passenger vehicle types, thus boosting the market size.
- For instance, India's passenger vehicle market experienced increase in the fiscal year 2023-24, with total sales rising to 42.19 lakh units from 38.90 lakh units in the previous year. This increase was primarily driven by a significant surge in utility vehicle sales, which climbed from 20.04 lakh to 25.21 lakh units. Van sales also saw a marginal increase, moving from 1.39 lakh to 1.49 lakh units.
- Thus, as per the analysis, the aforementioned factors are driving the market share.
Regional Analysis:
The regions covered are North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.
Asia Pacific region was valued at USD 28.59 Billion in 2024. Moreover, it is projected to grow by USD 29.29 Billion in 2025 and reach over USD 40.09 Billion by 2032. Out of these, China accounted for the largest revenue share of 41.47% in 2024. The region is a major hub for automotive manufacturing and sales, with countries like China, India, and Japan leading the way. Increased vehicle production and ownership translate to higher demand for automotive lubricants. Specifically, the growth of two wheelers in countries like India, is a significant driver of lubricant demand, further fueling automotive lubricants market growth.
- For instance, the Indian two-wheeler market experienced a notable upswing in the 2023-24 fiscal year, with sales climbing from 1.59 crore units to 1.80 crore units.
North America was valued at USD 17.55 Billion in 2024. Moreover, it is projected to grow by USD 17.91 Billion in 2025 and reach over USD 23.34 Billion by 2032.
Stringent environmental regulations, particularly in the United States and Canada, are pushing manufacturers to develop and offer eco-friendly lubricants, including the development of lubricants with reduced emissions and improved biodegradability. In addition, the presence of major automotive manufacturers and a well-developed aftermarket sector contributes to market stability.
- For instance, in November 2024, TotalEnergies Lubrifiants has introduced the Rubia EV3R line, a new range of high-performance, OEM-approved heavy-duty lubricants made from high-quality regenerated oils. This initiative aligns with TotalEnergies' climate strategy to reduce CO2 emissions and support customer decarbonization.
As per the automotive lubricants market analysis, European automotive lubricants market is driven by stringent environmental regulations, pushing for advanced synthetic and bio-based lubricants. Additionally, Latin American market is witnessing increase fueled by increasing vehicle ownership, particularly in countries like Brazil and Mexico. Moreover, ME&A region presents a diverse market, driven by expanding vehicle fleets, infrastructure development, and industrial activity.
Top Key Players and Market Share Insights:
The market is highly competitive with major players providing automotive lubricants to the national and international markets. Key players are adopting several strategies in research and development (R&D), product innovation, and end-user launches to hold a strong position in the market. Key players in the automotive lubricants industry include-
- BP plc (U.K.)
- Chevron Corporation (U.S.)
- China National Petroleum Corporation (China)
- ENEOS Corporation (Japan)
- Exxon Mobil Corporation (U.S.)
- Fuchs Petrolub SE (Germany)
- Idemitsu Kosan (Japan)
- Shell plc (U.K.)
- Sinopec Group (China)
- TotalEnergies SE (France)
- Valvoline Inc. (U.S.)
Recent Industry Developments :
- In September 2023, Liqui Moly has launched its new 8100 Dual Clutch Gear Oil, designed for broad compatibility with wet dual-clutch transmissions. This advanced formula, featuring viscosity stabilizers, anti-wear additives, and friction modifiers, ensures smooth shifting and reliable protection in all driving conditions.
- In March 2023, ExxonMobil announced to invest USD 110 million to construct a lubricant manufacturing plant in Raigad, India, slated to begin operations in 2025. With a capacity of 159,000 kilo liters annually, the plant will cater to both Indian and international markets, signifying ExxonMobil's strategic expansion of its lubricant business within India and the Asia-Pacific region and its commitment to the Indian economy.
Automotive Lubricants Market Report Insights :
| Report Attributes | Report Details |
| Study Timeline | 2019-2032 |
| Market Size in 2032 | USD 95.84 Billion |
| CAGR (2025-2032) | 4.2% |
| By Oil Type |
|
| By Product Type |
|
| By Vehicle Type |
|
| By Region |
|
| Key Players |
|
| North America | U.S. Canada Mexico |
| Europe | U.K. Germany France Spain Italy Russia Benelux Rest of Europe |
| APAC | China South Korea Japan India Australia ASEAN Rest of Asia-Pacific |
| Middle East and Africa | GCC Turkey South Africa Rest of MEA |
| LATAM | Brazil Argentina Chile Rest of LATAM |
| Report Coverage |
|
Key Questions Answered in the Report
How big is the automotive lubricants market? +
The automotive lubricants market size is estimated to reach over USD 95.84 Billion by 2032 from a value of USD 70.11 Billion in 2024 and is projected to grow by USD 71.68 Billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2025 to 2032.
What specific segmentation details are covered in the automotive lubricants report? +
The automotive lubricants report includes specific segmentation details for oil type, product type, vehicle type, and regions.
Which is the fastest segment anticipated to impact the market growth? +
In the automotive lubricants market, greases is the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period.
Who are the major players in the automotive lubricants market? +
The key participants in the automotive lubricants market are BP plc (U.K.), Chevron Corporation (U.S.), China National Petroleum Corporation (China), ENEOS Corporation (Japan), Exxon Mobil Corporation (U.S.), Fuchs Petrolub SE (Germany), Idemitsu Kosan (Japan), Shell plc (U.K.), Sinopec Group (China), TotalEnergies SE (France), Valvoline Inc. (U.S.), and Others.
