In an exclusive interview with Rajesh Rajgor, Nitin Mengi, Vice President Lubrizol Additives IMEA and CMD, Lubrizol India Private Limited, shares insights into the company’s current operations, product portfolio, and market presence. He discusses Lubrizol’s ‘Local for Local’ approach, its commitment to innovation and sustainability, and its strategic performance and growth plans. Additionally, he highlights Lubrizol’s export opportunities, global integration strategies, and the market opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
Lubrizol has firmly established itself as a key player in the Indian additives market, driven by a strategic focus on innovation, sustainability, and local manufacturing. With a strong presence in the transportation and industrial fluids segment, the company continues to expand its footprint through investments and technological advancements.
The company’s product portfolio encompasses a wide range of chemical additive technologies, including engine oil additives, driveline fluids, and industrial lubricants. “Lubrizol is committed to advancing the performance and efficiency of vehicles, supporting both internal combustion engines and the emerging electric and hybrid vehicle segment,” says Nitin Mengi. The company collaborates closely with OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and oil marketers to introduce cutting-edge solutions that improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. Their EVOGEN additives, fluids, and grease exemplify their dedication to future mobility, offering solutions tailored for electric vehicles and alternative fuel technologies.
Current Operations & Local for Local Approach
A strong local presence bolsters Lubrizol’s ability to meet regional demands. The company operates manufacturing facilities in Turbhe and Taloja, ensuring a stable supply chain across India and parts of the Middle East. In alignment with India’s ‘Local for Local’ initiative, Lubrizol is developing a $200 million manufacturing facility in Aurangabad on a 120-acre land parcel. “Our investments reflect our belief in the Indian market’s growth potential. The Aurangabad facility will serve as a cornerstone for our regional strategy, enhancing our ability to cater to domestic and export demands,” he explains.
Beyond manufacturing, Lubrizol has strengthened its innovation ecosystem by opening a new grease lab in Navi Mumbai and a Global Capability Center in Pune. These facilities enable close collaboration with customers, ensuring solutions are tailored to meet specific industry needs. The integration of local expertise with global technological advancements enhances Lubrizol’s ability to drive innovation and respond effectively to market dynamics.
Innovation and Sustainability
One of Lubrizol’s core principles is sustainability, which has been embedded in its operations since its founding in 1928. The company continuously develops sustainable solutions that benefit both the environment and its customers. “We don’t just focus on our footprint; we also prioritize our handprint—the impact our products have in enabling cleaner and more efficient transportation,” notes Mengi.
This sustainability-driven approach is evident in Lubrizol’s focus on improving internal combustion engine efficiency, supporting hybrid and hydrogen technologies, and delivering measurable sustainability targets outlined in its annual corporate report. By leveraging advanced chemical formulations and working closely with industry partners, Lubrizol is developing next-generation additives that not only enhance performance but also reduce environmental impact. The company’s commitment to sustainable solutions aligns with global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions and improve air quality.
Lubrizol is also exploring the potential of artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and automation to optimize its processes. These technologies are expected to enhance the efficiency of transportation and manufacturing, ensuring that Lubrizol remains ahead of industry trends while delivering value to customers.
Performance and Growth Plans
With India’s transportation and industrial markets on a strong growth trajectory, Lubrizol is positioning itself for long-term success. The Aurangabad facility marks the company’s largest investment in India, reinforcing its commitment to the ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ visions. “We are excited to contribute to India’s transformation into a global manufacturing hub. This facility will not only enhance our local capabilities but also serve as a launchpad for innovative, self-reliant solutions,” he states.
The Indian market presents a dynamic landscape with both opportunities and challenges. On the one hand, increasing industrialization and infrastructure development are driving demand for high-performance lubricants and additives. On the other hand, the shift towards sustainability necessitates constant innovation to meet stringent regulatory standards and customer expectations.
Lubrizol is keen on leveraging its research and development capabilities to address these challenges. The company’s strong partnerships with OEMs, industrial manufacturers, and oil marketers position it well to deliver solutions that enhance equipment longevity, improve fuel efficiency, and minimize emissions. By focusing on customer-centric innovation, Lubrizol aims to maintain its competitive edge and expand its influence in the rapidly evolving Indian market.
Export Opportunities and Global Integration
As Lubrizol scales its operations, it also eyes opportunities in global markets. The Aurangabad plant will be the company’s second-largest manufacturing facility globally, enabling efficient exports to neighboring countries. “Our strategic location allows us to integrate seamlessly with global supply chains while ensuring a deep understanding of regional market needs,” Mengi highlights.
The plant’s proximity to key industrial hubs will facilitate faster product development and validation, giving Lubrizol a competitive edge in meeting customer expectations. By leveraging India’s cost-effective manufacturing ecosystem, the company aims to strengthen its export capabilities and contribute to the broader global supply chain.
With an emphasis on technological excellence, sustainability, and regional expansion, Lubrizol is well-positioned to navigate the evolving landscape of the additives industry. By focusing on product innovation, sustainability, and regional integration, the company is poised to support India’s journey toward a more advanced and self-sufficient industrial ecosystem. Lubrizol’s strategic initiatives reinforce its role as a global leader while ensuring that it remains deeply rooted in India’s industrial growth story.
