19APRIL 2026In an exclusive interview with Thiruamuthan, Assistant Editor at Industry Outlook, Arijit Basu, Managing Director at Veedol Corporation Limited, discusses the evolution of synthetic oils in India's automotive industry. He highlights their role in improving fuel efficiency, reducing emissions, and meeting sustainability goals, sharing how these advancements cater to the evolving needs of the automotive sector.Arijit Basu is an experienced business leader with over two decades of expertise in automotive lubricants, construction chemicals, and industrial products. He specializes in transformation, strategic investments, P&L leadership, digitalization, and team development, with a focus on scaling organizations and driving profitable growth.INDUSTRY INSIGHTSSYNTHETIC ENGINE OILS OPTIMIZING FRICTION, WEAR, AND FUEL ECONOMYArijit Basu, Managing Director, Veedol CorporationModern synthetic oils reduce high-temperature wear and micro-friction while ensuring engine reliability under India's harsh conditions, so how do they consistently maintain such performance levels?It is a combination of lubricant technology and the evolution of engine technology. Globally and in India, the focus is on improving fuel efficiency, using cleaner fuels, and reducing vehicle-related emissions. That being said, cutting down the carbon credit is also a crucial factor in both global and now in India.Considering all these factors, the lubricant technology is now palpably evolving alongside engine advancements. Moreover, engines are becoming more powerful than before, but at the same time, the annular space between the pistons is shrinking. So what is needed is lubricant technology based on molecules that can perform effectively in a narrow annular space, delivering better performance while reducing oil consumption.This is possible with the newer and advanced lubricant technology, primarily based on synthetic molecules and low-viscosity base oils, which are becoming more common in India. So the progression in technology is taking place in terms of moving the lubricating oils from mineral to semi-synthetic to fully synthetic versions.The organization I represent, Veedol, which is a very well-known for helping its customers understand the benefits of synthetic lubricants. This supports the broader goal of achieving high performance oils while protecting the environment.Thus, lubricating oils are aligning with advancements in the automotive industry.Low-friction synthetic oils improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions while aiding Indian fleet operations, so what measurable gains are operators currently observing in real usage?The need for lubricants depends on various transportation segments. In fleet transport, long drain intervals and reliable lubricating oil quality are key. Long-haul fleets prefer fewer lubricant changes, achievable through high-tech lubricants that offer lower friction, better performance, and higher temperature stability. Reliability of service availability is equally important for this segment. It's a combination of quality and service that meets these needs.For passenger cars and two-wheelers, the focus is on higher performance, ride comfort, and a better riding Arijit Basu, Managing Director
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