Download Sample, Increasing Vehicle Production and Emission Standards Propel Global VII Market Growth
The major leading factor driving the global viscosity index improver (VII) market is the rapidly growing demand for high-performance lubricants. However, the stricter emission rules, engine restructuring, and modern innovations such as turbocharging, advanced engines, and industrial machinery operate within adverse and harsh conditions, especially in higher temperatures and pressures. Thus, such factors increased mechanical and thermal pressure; meanwhile, lubricants can maintain a constant viscosity, and it is essential to maintain flawless operation, which fuels the VII market. Extreme shifts in viscosity affect lubrication, resulting in wear and lower operation.
Through influencing lubricant viscosity across temperature ranges, viscosity index improvers deal with this problem, helping to protect the engine, fuel economy, and oil change intervals. Furthermore, the requirement of lubricants with robust viscosity profiles is further demonstrated with the evolution of hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as heavy-duty engine expansion. Collectively, these phenomena encourage and expand the adoption of VII in the automotive and industrial segments and promote definite growth of the VII market.
The global VII industry is rapidly boosted due to increasing demand and production of vehicle classes, including passenger cars, commercial trucks, and other vehicles. This alternatively shifts the automobile business towards multi-grade engine oils and lubricants to guarantee smooth engine performance even across the different temperature ranges, and promotes the VII market growth. The new modern technology engines are challenged by the thermal loads and require lubricants with chief shear stability and improved fuel performance, leading OEMs to require oils that possess advanced VIIs.
Furthermore, the trend for longer oil change intervals and widespread use of synthetic oils additionally drives the VII business. For instance, a report by the Alliance for Automotive Innovation stated, the U.S. light truck market share increased by 1.4 % points to 81.3% in 2024, reflecting the increased consumption of high-performance lubricants. Subsequently, the global growth in vehicle production volume fuels the VII industry by nurturing the necessity for oils and lubricants that maintain performance under stringent operations.
Through influencing lubricant viscosity across temperature ranges, viscosity index improvers deal with this problem, helping to protect the engine, fuel economy, and oil change intervals. Furthermore, the requirement of lubricants with robust viscosity profiles is further demonstrated with the evolution of hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as heavy-duty engine expansion. Collectively, these phenomena encourage and expand the adoption of VII in the automotive and industrial segments and promote definite growth of the VII market.
The global VII industry is rapidly boosted due to increasing demand and production of vehicle classes, including passenger cars, commercial trucks, and other vehicles. This alternatively shifts the automobile business towards multi-grade engine oils and lubricants to guarantee smooth engine performance even across the different temperature ranges, and promotes the VII market growth. The new modern technology engines are challenged by the thermal loads and require lubricants with chief shear stability and improved fuel performance, leading OEMs to require oils that possess advanced VIIs.
Furthermore, the trend for longer oil change intervals and widespread use of synthetic oils additionally drives the VII business. For instance, a report by the Alliance for Automotive Innovation stated, the U.S. light truck market share increased by 1.4 % points to 81.3% in 2024, reflecting the increased consumption of high-performance lubricants. Subsequently, the global growth in vehicle production volume fuels the VII industry by nurturing the necessity for oils and lubricants that maintain performance under stringent operations.
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Temperature-Resistant Olefin Polymers Emerging as Top Choice for Modern Engine Lubricants
The exceptional performance in different types of temperature and application by olefin copolymer, dominating a robust growth for the VII market. Besides the other additive product types, like polymethacrylate and hydrogenated styrene-diene copolymers, olefin copolymer performance for low and high temperature stability is quite high compared to other additive products. Thus, making it ideal for automotive and industrial machinery that demands smooth performance under harsh conditions. The cost efficiency and versatility in formulation and production further increase olefin copolymer demand for cost-friendly consumers.
Furthermore, the growing requirement of synthetic lubricants and strict regulatory rules over the fuel economy, olefin copolymers offer a prominent edge over alternatives. Its superior durability and functional stability make olefin copolymer an ideal choice for industries focused on longer performance, solidifying its position as the fastest-growing segment in the VII market. The liquid form of VII is easy to blend, takes less processing time, and is compatible with automated systems, which makes the liquid form segment the fastest-growing segment in the global viscosity index improver market.
On the other hand, solid VIIs took extra efforts to dissolve quickly in base oils like liquid VIIs, making them ideal for high-volume lubricant manufacturing. Such a type of competence is crucial in large industries of automotive and industrial machinery, where faster production is required. For instance, Chevron Oronite, a leading VII manufacturer, has heavily invested in liquid polymer and producing Paratone technologies to meet rising global demand. The liquid VIIs are formulated in favour of low-viscosity synthetic oils, which were commonly used in EVs and new modern engines to improve fuel efficiency and eliminate emissions, further driving the market growth.
Furthermore, the growing requirement of synthetic lubricants and strict regulatory rules over the fuel economy, olefin copolymers offer a prominent edge over alternatives. Its superior durability and functional stability make olefin copolymer an ideal choice for industries focused on longer performance, solidifying its position as the fastest-growing segment in the VII market. The liquid form of VII is easy to blend, takes less processing time, and is compatible with automated systems, which makes the liquid form segment the fastest-growing segment in the global viscosity index improver market.
On the other hand, solid VIIs took extra efforts to dissolve quickly in base oils like liquid VIIs, making them ideal for high-volume lubricant manufacturing. Such a type of competence is crucial in large industries of automotive and industrial machinery, where faster production is required. For instance, Chevron Oronite, a leading VII manufacturer, has heavily invested in liquid polymer and producing Paratone technologies to meet rising global demand. The liquid VIIs are formulated in favour of low-viscosity synthetic oils, which were commonly used in EVs and new modern engines to improve fuel efficiency and eliminate emissions, further driving the market growth.
Recent Trends in the Viscosity Index Improver Industry
- Enhanced Polymer Designs for Greater Shear Stability in Engine Oils.
- Sustainable Additive Formulations to Reduce Environmental Impact Significantly.
- Rising Demand for Multi-Grade Lubricants Across Global Automotive Markets.
- Improved Compatibility with Bio-Based and Synthetic Lubricant Blends.
- Focus on Extended Drain Intervals for Commercial Vehicle Lubricants.
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Raw Material Instability and EV Shift Threaten VII Market Resilience and Profitability
The unplanned cost fluctuations introduced due to raw material price volatility restrict the global growth for the VIIs industry. The instability in the prices for primary raw materials, polymers, base oils, and chemicals is readily dependent on crude oil prices, energy costs and geopolitical factors. When raw material prices increase, production units in manufacturers face a tough challenge in making decisions such as absorbing the cost and sacrificing profit margins or passing on the increased costs to consumers. Moreover, a sudden rise in prices also gives rise to resistance from the end users, like lubricant manufacturers, who may cut on the VII usage or search for a cheap substitute, thereby hindering the market growth.
Moreover, the prices are subject to geopolitical instability, stringent environmental regulations, and supply chain disruptions, which make it hard for manufacturers to keep a consistent production cost. This variability, to a great extent, drags down the market expansion, the product affordability, and the market competitiveness of VCIIs as in the global market. The global viscosity index improver industry is facing structural pressure from the accelerating shift toward electric mobility. As electric vehicles reject the use of engine oils and reduce reliance on traditional automatic transmission fluids, the primary consumption base for viscosity index improvers diminishes.
Simplified EV drivetrains further minimize lubricant complexity, reducing additive requirements. Simultaneously, limited diversification across end-use sectors increases vulnerability. Industrial applications, while stable, offer minimal expansion potential, and niche sectors like marine or aviation contribute marginally due to specialized formulations. Furthermore, technical constraints restrict deployment in emerging domains where temperature-driven viscosity shifts are minimal. Time-consuming approval cycles and compromises on performance also hamstring access to different segments like EV-dedicated fluids or sustainable lubricants. Taken together, these dynamics present a long-term threat to growth, as innovation migrates from legacy formulations to next-generation fluids more in tune with changing drivetrain technologies and environmental requirements.
Moreover, the prices are subject to geopolitical instability, stringent environmental regulations, and supply chain disruptions, which make it hard for manufacturers to keep a consistent production cost. This variability, to a great extent, drags down the market expansion, the product affordability, and the market competitiveness of VCIIs as in the global market. The global viscosity index improver industry is facing structural pressure from the accelerating shift toward electric mobility. As electric vehicles reject the use of engine oils and reduce reliance on traditional automatic transmission fluids, the primary consumption base for viscosity index improvers diminishes.
Simplified EV drivetrains further minimize lubricant complexity, reducing additive requirements. Simultaneously, limited diversification across end-use sectors increases vulnerability. Industrial applications, while stable, offer minimal expansion potential, and niche sectors like marine or aviation contribute marginally due to specialized formulations. Furthermore, technical constraints restrict deployment in emerging domains where temperature-driven viscosity shifts are minimal. Time-consuming approval cycles and compromises on performance also hamstring access to different segments like EV-dedicated fluids or sustainable lubricants. Taken together, these dynamics present a long-term threat to growth, as innovation migrates from legacy formulations to next-generation fluids more in tune with changing drivetrain technologies and environmental requirements.
Ultra-Viscosity Oils and Clean Technology Spark Renewed Focus on Efficiency in Automotive and Industrial Lubricants
The global VII industry has been marked by a series of developments intended to enhance lubricant functioning in demanding industrial and automotive applications. The exception was in January 2025 when DowPol Chemical International Corp., Shanghai, announced DowSyn V2000, an ultra-high viscosity mPAO base oil (2000 cSt @ 100°C) with the intent of it being used in the formulation of the most demanding industrial lubricants and greases, from which excellent shear stability and thermo-oxidative performance could be outstanding.
This launch strengthened DowPol’s portfolio, advancing global viscosity index improver solutions by enabling longer engine oil life and enhanced performance under extreme conditions, driving innovation across lubricant and industrial sectors. In addition, Oil Store became The Lubrizol Corporation’s channel partner for refrigeration and heat transfer fluid solutions in the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa in October 2024. On the success of this venture in the UK, this arrangement extended Lubrizol’s global footprint with increased supply assurance and market penetration. This strategic move supported the growing demand for advanced fluid solutions, indirectly boosting innovation and adoption within the global viscosity index improver market by strengthening lubricant performance in diverse industrial applications.
Also, in August 2024, two light-duty low viscosity Castrol motor oil GTX 0W-16 AN2022 and GTX 0W-20 RN17 FE have been launched. Taking engine cleanliness and fuel efficiency to a new level, it keeps detailed parts like new with its 3X Clean technology and surpasses the tough Euro 7 and RN17FE white-glove standards. This launch accelerated innovation in lubricant performance, supporting global viscosity index improver demand by optimising protection and efficiency for modern hybrid and combustion engines.
However, the new formulations are developed to further improve shear stability, thermo-oxidative resistance, and fuel efficiency and to comply with tough environmental and performance requirements. These advancements are stimulating the use of high-performance lubricants and greases, offering extended device life, improved engine fortification, and better performance. Hence, the market is experiencing a growing interest in high-quality fluid solutions in various industries worldwide.
This launch strengthened DowPol’s portfolio, advancing global viscosity index improver solutions by enabling longer engine oil life and enhanced performance under extreme conditions, driving innovation across lubricant and industrial sectors. In addition, Oil Store became The Lubrizol Corporation’s channel partner for refrigeration and heat transfer fluid solutions in the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa in October 2024. On the success of this venture in the UK, this arrangement extended Lubrizol’s global footprint with increased supply assurance and market penetration. This strategic move supported the growing demand for advanced fluid solutions, indirectly boosting innovation and adoption within the global viscosity index improver market by strengthening lubricant performance in diverse industrial applications.
Also, in August 2024, two light-duty low viscosity Castrol motor oil GTX 0W-16 AN2022 and GTX 0W-20 RN17 FE have been launched. Taking engine cleanliness and fuel efficiency to a new level, it keeps detailed parts like new with its 3X Clean technology and surpasses the tough Euro 7 and RN17FE white-glove standards. This launch accelerated innovation in lubricant performance, supporting global viscosity index improver demand by optimising protection and efficiency for modern hybrid and combustion engines.
However, the new formulations are developed to further improve shear stability, thermo-oxidative resistance, and fuel efficiency and to comply with tough environmental and performance requirements. These advancements are stimulating the use of high-performance lubricants and greases, offering extended device life, improved engine fortification, and better performance. Hence, the market is experiencing a growing interest in high-quality fluid solutions in various industries worldwide.
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North America Leads Global VII Industry Supported by Strong Manufacturing and Regulatory Push
North America has solidified itself as the world's leading region in the viscosity index improver market due to a number of strategic advantages. Geographic spread of the region's enormous volume of vehicle manufacturing in the United States and Canada drives strong demand for viscosity index improvers, which are essential in order to maximize engine efficiency and fuel economy. An established petrochemical sector provides the platform for the indigenous production of high-quality additives to reduce imports. Stringent regulatory standards, such as the Environmental Protection Agency and California's California Air Resources Board standards, also promote demand for advanced lubricants that contain viscosity index improvers to meet stringent emission and performance standards.
Sectors like construction and mining also increase the lubricant requirement. Extremely well-developed logistics and supply chains allow efficient distribution and exportation throughout North America. Interestingly, the U.S. was the world's biggest crude oil producer in 2024, with exports worth over 4.1 million barrels per day, according to the Independent Petroleum Association of New Mexico and the Energy Information Administration, further increasing raw material supply for the production of additives and consolidating the region's market dominance.
The Asia Pacific has emerged as the fastest-growing continent in the global viscosity index improver industry, powered by substantial industrial and automotive growth. China, for its part, produced 31.28 million vehicles and sold 31.44 million units in 2024, as per data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, driving that increased demand for high-performance engine oils containing viscosity index improvers to help address changing emissions and efficiency demands. At the same time explosion in the mining, construction, and agriculture industries has contributed to several million heavy machinery units needing lubricants that maintain their viscosity at high ambient temperatures.
Furthermore, increasing environmental regulations in major countries of the Asia Pacific demand that lubricant manufacturers use advanced additives. Its flourishing manufacturing industries in electronics and textiles, and clothing are expanding at double-digit rates, and the demand for industrial lubricants has thus expanded dramatically. All these have boosted the use of viscosity index improvers, with the Asia Pacific as the prime growth driver for this market. The report provides a detailed overview of the viscosity index improver market insights in regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa.
The country-specific assessment for the viscosity index improver market has been offered for all regional market shares, along with forecasts, market scope estimates, price point assessment, and impact analysis of prominent countries and regions. Throughout this market research report, Y-o-Y growth and CAGR estimates are also incorporated for every country and region, to provide a detailed view of the viscosity index improver market. These Y-o-Y projections on regional and country-level markets brighten the political, economic, and business environment outlook, which is anticipated to have a substantial impact on the growth of the viscosity index improver market. Some key countries and regions included in the viscosity index improver market report are as follows:
Sectors like construction and mining also increase the lubricant requirement. Extremely well-developed logistics and supply chains allow efficient distribution and exportation throughout North America. Interestingly, the U.S. was the world's biggest crude oil producer in 2024, with exports worth over 4.1 million barrels per day, according to the Independent Petroleum Association of New Mexico and the Energy Information Administration, further increasing raw material supply for the production of additives and consolidating the region's market dominance.
The Asia Pacific has emerged as the fastest-growing continent in the global viscosity index improver industry, powered by substantial industrial and automotive growth. China, for its part, produced 31.28 million vehicles and sold 31.44 million units in 2024, as per data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, driving that increased demand for high-performance engine oils containing viscosity index improvers to help address changing emissions and efficiency demands. At the same time explosion in the mining, construction, and agriculture industries has contributed to several million heavy machinery units needing lubricants that maintain their viscosity at high ambient temperatures.
Furthermore, increasing environmental regulations in major countries of the Asia Pacific demand that lubricant manufacturers use advanced additives. Its flourishing manufacturing industries in electronics and textiles, and clothing are expanding at double-digit rates, and the demand for industrial lubricants has thus expanded dramatically. All these have boosted the use of viscosity index improvers, with the Asia Pacific as the prime growth driver for this market. The report provides a detailed overview of the viscosity index improver market insights in regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa.
The country-specific assessment for the viscosity index improver market has been offered for all regional market shares, along with forecasts, market scope estimates, price point assessment, and impact analysis of prominent countries and regions. Throughout this market research report, Y-o-Y growth and CAGR estimates are also incorporated for every country and region, to provide a detailed view of the viscosity index improver market. These Y-o-Y projections on regional and country-level markets brighten the political, economic, and business environment outlook, which is anticipated to have a substantial impact on the growth of the viscosity index improver market. Some key countries and regions included in the viscosity index improver market report are as follows:
| North America | United States, Canada |
| Latin America | Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Rest of Latin America |
| Europe | Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Poland, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, Sweden, Austria, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Rest of Europe |
| Asia Pacific | China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia & New Zealand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Rest of Asia Pacific |
| MEA | GCC Countries, South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Israel, Iran, Kenya, Turkey, Rest of MEA |
Viscosity Index Improver Market Research Report Covers In-depth Analysis on:
- Viscosity index improver market detailed segments and segment-wise market breakdown
- Viscosity index improver market dynamics (Recent industry trends, drivers, restraints, growth potential, opportunities in viscosity index improver industry)
- Current, historical, and forthcoming 10-year market valuation in terms of viscosity index improver market size (US$ Mn), volume (Tons), share (%), Y-o-Y growth rate, and CAGR (%) analysis
- Viscosity index improver market demand analysis
- Viscosity index improver market pricing analysis over the forecast period (by key segment and by region)
- Viscosity index improver market regional insights with region-wise market breakdown
- Competitive analysis – key companies profiling including their market share, product offerings, and competitive strategies.
- Latest developments and innovations in the viscosity index improver market
- Regulatory landscape by key regions and key countries
- Supply chain and value chain analysis in the viscosity index improver market
- Viscosity index improver market sales and distribution strategies
- A comprehensive overview of the parent market
- A detailed viewpoint on the viscosity index improver market forecast by countries
- Mergers and acquisitions in the viscosity index improver market
- Essential information to enhance market position
- Robust research methodology
- Frequently Asked Questions -
What is the role of viscosity index improvers in lubricant formulations?
Viscosity index improvers enhance the temperature stability of lubricants, ensuring consistent flow and performance across varying temperatures, which is critical for engine efficiency and long-term mechanical protection.
How does the viscosity index improver market respond to environmental regulations?
Market demand is influenced by stricter environmental standards, as manufacturers focus on eco-friendly formulations, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions in industrial and automotive lubricants.
Which industries are the major consumers of viscosity index improvers?
Key consumers include automotive, heavy machinery, industrial equipment, marine, and power generation industries, where lubricants with stable viscosity are critical for operational efficiency and machinery longevity.
