India Base Oil Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast and Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Report
85 Pages
August 2024
Region: India
TechSci Research
ID: 5024048

India Base Oil Market achieved a total market volume of 3.59 Billion Litres in 2024 and expected to reach 4.42 Billion Litres by 2030 with a CAGR of 3.74% during the forecast period. Base oil is a crucial ingredient in lubricants and various products, serving as the primary fluid in engine oils, hydraulic fluids, and gear oils. It plays a vital role in reducing friction, wear, and heat between moving components. Mineral oils, the most prevalent type, are obtained by refining crude oil and are classified according to their refining processes and performance attributes. Esters, which can be either synthetic or natural, are chosen for specialized applications due to their superior lubrication properties and low toxicity. The selection of base oil influences the lubricant’s performance, affecting its viscosity, thermal stability, and protective capabilities against wear and corrosion.

The market for base oils is projected to grow due to rising industrialization, expansion in the automotive sector, and increasing demand for high-quality lubricants. The growth in vehicle production and the need for high-performance engine oils are significant factors driving base oil demand. Investments in infrastructure projects are also boosting the demand for lubricants and, by extension, base oils.

Fluctuations in crude oil prices, the primary raw material for base oils, can affect their cost structure. Complying with environmental regulations and standards for lubricant formulations can be both challenging and expensive. Major players in the Indian base oil market include Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL).

There is a growing trend towards synthetic and semi-synthetic oils, driven by their recognized benefits in performance and durability. Additionally, there is increasing interest in bio-based or renewable base oils as part of the move towards more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. This focus on sustainability is leading to innovations in base oil formulations and recycling practices. Significant investments are being made in R&D to develop advanced base oils with enhanced performance characteristics, such as improved thermal stability and oxidative resistance. As automotive and industrial demands evolve, the market is expected to see greater adoption of high-performance and specialty base oils.

Key Market Drivers

Growth of Automotive Sector

As disposable incomes rise and urbanization accelerates, an increasing number of individuals and families are purchasing vehicles, which boosts the demand for engine oils and lubricants formulated using base oils. According to Invest India, from April 2023 to March 2024, the automotive sector produced 28.43 million vehicles, including passenger cars, commercial vehicles, three-wheelers, two-wheelers, and quadricycles.

The expansion of automotive manufacturing in India, supported by both domestic production and foreign investments, drives the need for base oils in the production of various automotive lubricants and fluids. Additionally, as reported by IBEF, the automobile sector attracted a cumulative equity FDI inflow of approximately USD 35.40 billion between April 2000 and September 2023. India is poised to become the largest electric vehicle (EV) market by 2030, with over USD 200 billion in investment opportunities projected over the next 8-10 years. Modern vehicles require high-performance lubricants to enhance fuel efficiency and engine longevity, relying on high-quality base oils to meet stringent performance standards.

The increase in commercial vehicles, such as trucks and buses, driven by logistics and transportation needs, further escalates the demand for base oils used in heavy-duty engine oils and industrial lubricants.

As vehicles age, there is a consistent need for maintenance and replacement of engine oils and other lubricants, sustaining a steady demand for base oils. Government policies promoting cleaner fuels and more efficient vehicles often require higher-quality lubricants, which are formulated with advanced base oils. Additionally, regulations on emission standards and fuel efficiency further drive the demand for superior lubricants.

Rising Demand for High-Performance Lubricants

Modern engines and industrial machinery demand lubricants that provide exceptional protection and efficiency. High-performance lubricants, developed with advanced base oils, are crucial for optimizing engine performance, enhancing fuel efficiency, and ensuring reliable operation. Technological advancements have introduced more demanding lubrication requirements, including higher temperatures, greater pressures, and stricter performance standards, which high-performance lubricants are designed to meet.

In July 2024, Autoz365 Lubricants, a division of Tesla Power India Pvt. Ltd., introduced a new line of lubricants in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. These products feature innovative formulations aimed at improving fuel efficiency and delivering superior engine protection. Similarly, in June 2024, Castrol India launched new products under the Castrol EDGE brand, including three new engine oil variants for passenger cars. Castrol EDGE is engineered to exceed industry standards by at least 30%, with PowerBoost Technology designed to meet the latest OEM specifications and enhance power and acceleration.

As vehicles and machinery become more advanced, there is an increasing trend towards longer oil change intervals. High-performance lubricants that retain their effectiveness over extended periods are essential for meeting these extended maintenance needs, thereby driving up the demand for high-quality base oils. In April 2024, Savita Oil Technologies Ltd. released its Ester 5 brand, which offers 28% fewer engine deposits, and 33% lower friction compared to standard Group-III base oil lubricants.

The emphasis on improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions across various sectors further drives the need for high-performance lubricants that minimize friction and wear, enhancing fuel economy and supporting environmental regulations. The growing use of high-performance lubricants in premium automotive models and specialized industrial applications underscores the demand for superior base oils. As competition among lubricant manufacturers intensifies, there is a strong push towards developing higher-performance products, accelerating the innovation and use of advanced base oils.

Key Market Challenges

Volatility in Crude Oil Prices

Fluctuations in crude oil prices result in unpredictable shifts in base oil production costs, complicating the task for manufacturers to set stable prices and manage profit margins. Significant increases in crude oil prices can reduce profit margins for base oil producers, especially if they cannot pass these higher costs onto their customers. On the other hand, sharp declines in crude oil prices can affect revenue for producers who have invested in inventory at higher prices.

Price volatility can disrupt the supply chain by impacting the availability and cost of raw materials, leading to delays and increased expenses throughout the supply chain. This volatility can also heighten competition among base oil producers, as they vie to maintain market share amidst changing costs, potentially resulting in price wars or more aggressive promotional strategies. End-users, such as automotive and industrial lubricant manufacturers, may react to these price fluctuations, leading to variations in the cost of final products and influencing consumer demand and buying patterns.

Technological Complexity in Refining Processes

Developing and maintaining advanced refining technologies requires significant capital investment, including the costs for acquiring and installing sophisticated equipment, as well as ongoing expenses for upgrades and maintenance. These modern refining processes involve complex technologies that necessitate specialized knowledge and skills, making the recruitment and training of qualified personnel both costly and challenging, which can affect overall operational efficiency.

Ongoing innovation in refining technologies demands considerable investment in research and development, with substantial expenses and time needed to create new and improved methods for producing high-quality base oils. Integrating these new technologies with existing systems presents technical challenges, requiring sophisticated engineering solutions to ensure compatibility and optimize performance across various production stages.

Advanced refining processes must consistently produce base oils that meet stringent quality standards. Ensuring high-quality output amidst this technological complexity requires rigorous quality control measures and continuous monitoring. Overall, the intricate nature of refining technologies necessitates substantial investment, expertise, and continual innovation, presenting a significant challenge for base oil producers.

Key Market Trends

Focus on Environmental Sustainability

There is a growing demand for bio-based and renewable base oils sourced from natural materials rather than fossil fuels. These environmentally friendly alternatives offer a more sustainable option compared to traditional mineral base oils and help mitigate environmental impact. For example, in April 2024, Savsol Lubricants introduced Savsol Ester 5, a biodegradable lubricant designed for high-end automotive and railway applications. This product, made from edible oil fatty acids and featuring proprietary molecules developed in-house, exemplifies this trend.

Stricter environmental regulations are being enforced by governments and regulatory bodies, including new limits on emissions and waste management. As a result, base oil manufacturers are being compelled to develop products that meet these higher environmental standards and enhance sustainability. There is a growing emphasis on creating lubricants that produce fewer emissions and have a lower environmental footprint. This includes advancements in base oil formulations aimed at reducing overall emissions.

At the India ComVAC Show 2023, Klüber Lubrication highlighted its innovative solutions designed to protect and optimize compressor performance. Their synthetic lubricants, featuring carefully selected base oils and additives, are engineered to prevent oxidation residues and extend system life, demonstrating the company's commitment to sustainability and performance.

Consumer awareness about environmental issues is increasing, leading to higher demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products. This shift is prompting base oil producers to prioritize sustainability in their offerings. Additionally, there is a trend towards adopting circular economy principles in the base oil industry, such as recycling and reusing base oils, reducing waste, and improving lifecycle management.

Companies are investing in green technologies and cleaner production methods to minimize the environmental impact of base oil production. This includes reducing energy consumption and emissions. Sustainability is becoming a key focus in corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies, with companies aiming to lower their environmental impact and support broader sustainability goals. The focus on environmental sustainability is transforming the base oil market by encouraging the development of eco-friendly products, driving regulatory compliance, and aligning with global sustainability objectives.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Based on Type, the Group I emerged as the dominating segment in the Indian market for Base Oil in 2024. Group I base oils are typically more cost-effective to produce compared to those in higher groups. Their lower production costs make them a preferred option for various applications, especially in price-sensitive markets. In India, the production and supply infrastructure for Group I base oils is well-established, ensuring widespread availability and distribution, which has reinforced their market dominance. These base oils deliver adequate performance for many standard applications, offering acceptable viscosity, oxidation stability, and low volatility. They are used in a range of lubricants, such as engine oils, hydraulic fluids, and gear oils, due to their versatility and reliable performance. The historical dominance and extensive production capabilities of Group I base oils ensure their continuous availability in the market, supporting a steady supply for both manufacturers and end-users.

Application Insights

Based on Application, Automotive Oil emerged as the dominating segment in the Indian market for Base Oil in 2024. India's growing vehicle fleet, which includes passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and two-wheelers, drives substantial demand for automotive oils such as engine oils, transmission fluids, and other lubricants. According to Invest India, the truck market in India is projected to expand more than fourfold by 2050, with the number of trucks expected to increase from 4 million in 2022 to approximately 17 million. Vehicles require regular maintenance, including oil changes, to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity, which perpetuates a steady demand for automotive oils. In 2023, Shell introduced Shell Helix HX6 5W-30 and Shell Helix SUV 5W-30, a new line of synthetic BS-VI compliant engine oils in India, designed to offer improved engine protection, fuel efficiency, and extended engine life for the passenger car motor oil segment. Modern vehicles, equipped with advanced technologies, necessitate high-performance lubricants to maintain efficiency and performance, further driving demand for specialized automotive oils. The Indian automotive industry is rapidly growing, driven by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and improved infrastructure. This growth translates into an increased need for automotive lubricants and base oils. Additionally, automotive oils must be replaced regularly to prevent engine wear and ensure vehicle efficiency, creating a consistent demand for base oils. Heightened consumer awareness of the importance of quality lubricants for engine health and performance, along with the aftermarket demand for vehicle maintenance and repairs, further fuels the need for premium automotive oils.

Regional Insights

Based on Region, West India emerged as the dominant region in the Indian market for India Base Oil in 2024. The region encompasses key industrial and economic centers such as Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmedabad, which play crucial roles in manufacturing and business. The economic vitality of West India drives substantial industrial activity, leading to increased demand for base oils across automotive and industrial sectors. Cities like Pune and Mumbai serve as major automotive hubs with a high density of vehicle production and assembly facilities. West India also benefits from strategic ports like Mumbai and Kandla, which support the import and export of base oils and related products.

The region supports a wide range of industries, including petrochemicals, textiles, and pharmaceuticals, all of which rely on base oils for their machinery and production processes. This diverse industrial base creates a high demand for industrial lubricants and base oils. West India’s advanced infrastructure and ongoing industrial and commercial investments create a favorable environment for base oil production and consumption. For example, in April 2024, Gujarat Gas (GGL) and Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) signed a memorandum of understanding to improve energy solutions for consumers, with IOCL supplying liquid fuels and automotive lubricants through GGL outlets and establishing a CNG facility at IOCL locations. The region’s appeal to both domestic and international investors further boost industrial activity and base oil demand.

Key Market Players

GS Caltex India Pvt Limited
Indian Oil Corporation Ltd.
SK Lubricants Co., Ltd.
Eastern Petroleum Pvt. Ltd
BP p.l.c
Shell India Pvt Ltd.
Hemraj Petrochem Pvt. Ltd.
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited
GARS Lubricants
Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited

Report Scope:

In this report, the India Base Oil Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

India Base Oil Market, By Type:

Group I
Group II
Group III
Group IV
Group V

India Base Oil Market, By Application:

Automotive Oil
Industrial Oil
Metalworking Fluids
Hydraulic Oil
Greases
Others