At Gulf Oil, we focus on a proactive lubrication strategy to improve performance and reduce downtime

Ravi Chawla
MD & CEO, Gulf Oil Lubricants India

What are the latest market trends in the oil / lubricants segment used in construction equipment?

The construction equipment lubricants segment in India is experiencing significant growth, propelled by the country’s infrastructure expansion and technological advancements. India construction equipment industry will reach a market size of $25 billion by 2030, positioning India as the world’s second largest and fastest-growing market in this sector and will be established as a global manufacturing and export hub for construction equipment.

This plan emphasizes sustained demand creation, a robust operating ecosystem, and technological advancements, all of which are expected to drive the demand for high-performance lubricants in the sector.

Key trends influencing this growth include -

Adoption of Synthetic and Semi-Synthetic Lubricants, There’s a notable shift towards advanced synthetic and semi-synthetic lubricants. These products offer enhanced performance, extended equipment life, and improved fuel economy, aligning with the industry’s focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Sustainability-Focused Products and Service, this includes the development of eco-friendly & bio degradable lubricants and alternative fuel-powered equipment, aligning with global efforts to reduce environmental impact.

Emphasis on Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Construction companies are prioritizing solutions that optimize TCO. High-quality lubricants contribute to this by reducing maintenance costs, extending service intervals, and enhancing equipment reliability, thereby minimizing operational expenses over time. Digitalization and IoT Integration allows for real-time monitoring of equipment and lubricant conditions. This proactive approach facilitates predictive maintenance, reduces unexpected downtime, and ensures optimal equipment performance.

How has the demand evolved over the past few years, and what are your projections for 2025?

The Indian lubricants market has shown remarkable resilience and growth over the past few years, emerging as a bright spot in the global lubricants landscape. As the third-largest lubricants market globally, India has demonstrated consistent volume growth at 3% CAGR, with value growth outpacing at 6% CAGR, driven by the shift towards premium and synthetic products.

Looking ahead to 2025, the market trajectory remains strongly positive. The convergence of several macro factors - robust GDP growth, accelerated infrastructure development, and rapid industrialization - positions India for sustained growth in lubricant demand. The automotive sector, which currently accounts for 57% of the market, will continue driving growth through increased vehicle ownership and the transition to higher-performance lubricants. Additionally, the industrial segment presents significant opportunities through the government’s manufacturing push and infrastructure investments of $1.7 trillion. While the emergence of EVs introduces new dynamics, their gradual adoption means ICE vehicles will still comprise over 90% of India’s vehicles by 2030. This, combined with the new demand for specialized EV fluids and industrial applications, reinforces our confidence in the market’s growth potential through 2025 and beyond.

What are the latest technological advancements in oil and lubricant formulations? How are these innovations contributing to equipment efficiency and sustainability?

The lubricants industry is undergoing significant technological advancements, particularly in response to evolving emission standards and the demand for enhanced equipment efficiency and sustainability. In India, the implementation of Bharat Stage (CEV/TREM) IV and Stage V emission norms for construction equipment vehicles necessitate the development of advanced lubricant formulations. These formulations are designed to meet stringent emission requirements and support modern engine technologies.

A key focus is on the creation of low-viscosity, low-SAPS (sulfated ash, phosphorus, and sulfur) engine oils. These lubricants are engineered to reduce internal friction, thereby improving fuel economy and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, they are compatible with after-treatment systems, ensuring compliance with emission standards without compromising engine durability.

The industry is also witnessing a shift towards synthetic and semi-synthetic lubricants. These products offer superior thermal stability and oxidation resistance, extending oil drain intervals and reducing maintenance costs. This transition aligns with the market’s emphasis on total cost of ownership, as longer-lasting lubricants contribute to reduced operational expenses over time.

What are the major challenges faced by the industry in the oil and lubricants segment and how is your company addressing these challenges?

The lubricants industry in India faces multiple challenges, including price volatility in crude oil and base oils, the proliferation of counterfeit products, and the evolving regulatory landscape. Additionally, the industry must adapt to the rising adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), which impacts demand for traditional lubricants. Another critical challenge is the inadequate infrastructure for used oil collection and recycling, leading to inefficiencies in sustainable practices.

At Gulf Oil Lubricants India, we are addressing these challenges through a multi-faceted approach. “Our focus on premiumization ensures we offer high-performance synthetic, energy-efficient, and sustainability-driven lubricants that enhance efficiency and durability. “To counter the EV shift, we have invested in EV fluids and charging solutions, positioning ourselves as a key player in the evolving mobility landscape. We are also leveraging technology and AI-driven solutions to improve supply chain efficiency and customer engagement. Sustainability remains at the core of our strategy, with initiatives aimed at developing eco-friendly lubricants and promoting responsible waste oil management. These efforts ensure Gulf Oil remains resilient and future-ready in a dynamic market

What measures should users take to maintain the longevity and efficiency of construction equipment through proper lubrication?

To keep construction equipment running smoothly and efficiently, proper lubrication is a must. At Gulf Oil, we focus on a proactive lubrication strategy to improve performance and reduce downtime.

Choose the Right Lubricant: It’s important to use the right lubricant for each piece of equipment. Our lubricant formulations are engineered with advanced technology to reduce wear and improve performance. Gulf Oil lubricants are designed to perform under tough conditions, which is crucial for India’s challenging environments.

Follow Oil Change Schedules: Regular oil changes are key. Sticking to the manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule, along with using automatic lubrication systems where possible, helps protect important parts like bearings and hydraulic systems. Gulf Oil also offers extended drain lubricants that last longer, reducing maintenance costs and oil changes, which is great for equipment working in tough conditions.

Prevent Contamination: Keeping lubricants clean is vital. Using high-quality lubricants, following clean handling practices, and doing regular oil checks can help avoid contamination that causes wear and breakdowns. Gulf Oil’s lubricants help fight common problems like oxidation and aeration, so equipment runs smoothly for longer.

Monitor Oil Condition: Keeping track of oil condition is important. Gulf Oil offers oil analysis services to check for contamination, oil thickness, and other factors that can affect performance. Regular checks help catch problems early, reducing the chance of breakdowns and ensuring the oil stays in good condition.