Infineum, a UK-based manufacturer of specialty automotive chemicals and a joint venture between ExxonMobil and Shell, is making a significant move in the competitive automotive chemical industry. The company has announced the establishment of a cutting-edge blending facility in India, targeting one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets. This expansion reflects Infineum’s confidence in India’s manufacturing capabilities and the increasing competition within the sector.
Set to be completed by March 2025, the new facility is expected to begin trial production mid-year, with full commercial blending operations launching in the third quarter, according to S. K. Raghuram, Infineum’s Country Head in India.
During the company’s 25th anniversary event in Jaipur, Raghuram stated, “We plan to have it fully operational by Q3 2025.” The facility will specialize in blending sulfonate and salicylate packages, which are essential additives for automotive lubricants.
Sulfonates help maintain engine cleanliness by preventing sludge and varnish buildup, while salicylates provide anti-wear and anti-corrosion properties, safeguarding engines against friction and oxidation. These additives are vital as vehicle manufacturers strive to meet stricter environmental regulations.
Infineum’s new facility aims not only to boost production capacity but also to provide automotive lubricant manufacturers with customizable blending options. By enabling precise formulations of sulfonates and salicylates, clients will be able to adjust their products to enhance attributes like engine cleanliness and fuel efficiency, catering to regulatory standards and changing consumer preferences. This tailored approach positions Infineum advantageously as automakers increasingly seek unique, high-performance lubricants.
The expansion also places Infineum in direct competition with other companies keen on the Indian market, driven by the rising demand for high-quality lubricants and additives amidst increasing vehicle sales. In light of global supply chain challenges, the India facility signifies a shift towards localized production, complementing Infineum’s existing regional strategy that encompasses full-service support operations, including chemical testing and supply chain management.
Since its establishment in January 1999, Infineum has significantly expanded its global footprint, operating production facilities and technology centers across Asia, the Americas, and Europe. Its new venture in India adds to an established network that includes manufacturing plants in locations such as New Jersey, Rio de Janeiro, Cologne, VadoLigure, Singapore, and Zhangjiagang, along with partner-operated sites in France.
As automakers strive for greener, more efficient technologies, Infineum’s strategic growth in India underscores the evolving priorities within the global automotive supply chain. With customization and localization shaping industry strategies, the new facility may serve as a model for Infineum’s operations in other markets, reflecting the company’s adaptability to changing automotive demands.
