Europe remains strategically important, but exhibitors were clear that compliance now comes at a price. The result is a push-pull dynamic. Europe retains its role as a technology reference point, while emerging markets increasingly anchor volume growth. Companies pursuing global footprints are therefore balancing innovation, sustainability, and compliance with greater precision, making selective regional choices.
This recalibration was visible across both exhibitions, not in headline announcements, but in the way booths were staffed, partnerships evident, and future pipelines discussed.
Futureproofing – evident across two-time horizons
Innovation was a dominant theme at both events, but it presented itself in two distinct time horizons. In the short term, futureproofing is tactical. Formulation adjustments, carbon-footprint reductions, and compatibility with tightening specifications are designed to preserve relevance through the next regulatory cycle. These initiatives extend the life of existing product categories rather than redefine them.
Exhibitors emphasised formulation adaptation to meet the next specification cycle. That includes low ash and low phosphorus chemistries for aftertreatment compatibility, dispersant systems for extended drains, and friction modifiers that enable lower viscosity grades without sacrificing wear protection. In Shanghai, Shenyang Ninesen highlighted low sulphurised TBN400 magnesium salts aimed at reducing particulate emissions while meeting China VI and Euro VI requirements, a practical response to immediate regulatory pressure.
Afton’s new hydrogen engine additives, showcased in Dusseldorf, are positioned on the trend-line of hydrogen adoption. These additives represent a necessary step toward compatibility with emerging fuel types, unlocking the potential of Hydrogen ICE engines.
Longer-term strategies, by contrast, reflect a more fundamental reassessment of the role lubricants will play in a decarbonising transport system. Here, the focus shifts away from incremental compliance toward materials science, alternative feedstocks, and friction reduction at the system level. These investments are
higher risk, slower to commercialise, and less easily framed within existing standards, but they signal where parts of the industry believe future value will reside.
A smaller but vocal cohort at both trade shows demonstrated investment in materials science and alternative feedstocks that could redefine lubricant value. Graphene XT SRL’s work on graphene based lubricants and BELLINI SPA’s and Goncord Oil’s development of plant based synthetic esters point to a future where friction reduction, thermal stability and lifecycle carbon become primary differentiators. These technologies are higher risk and slower to commercialise, but they signal where parts of the industry expect margins and relevance to migrate.
Sustainability narrative shifts from marketing rhetoric to feedstock reality Across both exhibitions, sustainability was most convincing where it was framed as an engineering or supply-chain constraint rather than a branding exercise.
Oil recycling provides a clear example. Re-refining used oils into high-quality base stocks is no longer positioned solely as an environmental benefit, but as a route to feedstock security, emissions reduction, and regulatory resilience. The economics are increasingly compelling where a confluence exists of scale, process efficiency, and integration with downstream blending.
The circular economy in action was evident in Düsseldorf. Avista Oil Deutschland and Thermopac Process Engineering in Dusseldorf showcased turnkey re-refining solutions that convert used oil into high quality base oils. Exhibitors argued that re-refining becomes commercially compelling where process efficiency and integration reduce reliance on virgin feedstocks and stabilise supply.
Similarly, interest in EV-related fluids was less about volume growth and more about technical complexity. Thermal management fluids, dielectric lubricants, and specialty greases introduce new performance criteria around material compatibility, heat transfer, and electrical insulation. While still niche in volume terms, these applications demand higher margins and deeper technical engagement.
LUBE MAGAZINE NO.191 FEBRUARY 2026
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