About Motul

Motul is an international brand of some of the best lubricants in the world. Headquartered in Paris, Motul has spent over a century perfecting its craft in mechanical lubrication. With a history dating back to 1853, the company has evolved from producing industrial lubricants to becoming a global leader in high-performance oils for engines and machinery.

Origins of Motul

Founded in 1853 in New York City under the name “Swan & Finch,” Motul initially focused on lubricants for steam engines, locomotives, and the textile industry. The company’s first major shift occurred in 1932 when the Zaug family, from France, acquired Swan & Finch, relocating the company to Chartres, France. In the years that followed, Motul expanded its product offerings and entered the automotive sector, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the company’s history. Let’s have a quick overview of Motul in numbers.

Motul at a Glance

Inception: 1853 (172 years ago) in New York City, USA.
Headquarters: Paris, France.
Global Presence: Products sold in over 160 countries worldwide.

Industry Firsts

1953: Launched the world's first multigrade motor oil.
1966: Introduced the world's first semi-synthetic motor oil.
1971: Released the world's first 100% synthetic motor oil, Motul 300V.

Motorsport Involvement

Motul is an official supplier to numerous prestigious racing events, including:

• MotoGP
• 24 Hours of Le Mans
• Dakar Rally
• FIA World Rally Championship

Certifications

ISO 9001 since 1996
QS9000 developed by Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler
ISO/TS 16949 developed by the IATF

Environmental Initiatives

Launched the NGEN range with products made from 50% recycled materials.

Product Range

Over 300 different products, including oils for motorcycles, cars, and industrial applications.

World’s First-Ever Synthetic Lubrication Oil

One of Motul's most significant achievements came in 1971 when the company launched the first-ever 100% synthetic multigrade lubricant, the Motul 300V. This groundbreaking product is developed by utilising Ester Core technology. This achievement set a new benchmark for engine performance and protection.

Motul’s expertise in synthetic oils didn’t stop there. By the 1980s, the company had developed a 100% synthetic lubricant made from esters of vegetal origin which was inspired by aviation technology. The success of 300V, with its connection to over 300 racing victories, solidified Motul’s place in the annals of motorsport history.

Motul’s Presence in Motorsports

Motul has a strong presence in motorsports around the globe. The company has become the go-to brand for racers and enthusiasts alike, thanks to its cutting-edge technology tested on the toughest racing circuits in the world. From the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans to the intense Dakar Rally, the Roof of Africa and MotoGP, Motul is a trusted supplier to some of the most demanding teams and drivers.

In the spirit of performance, Motul developed the 300V Motorsport line specifically designed for racing cars. These lubricants optimise engine performance based on various factors such as race type, fuel dilution, and operating temperature. Similarly, the 300V Factory line was created for motorcycles to deliver enhanced power, endurance, and torque. These bespoke solutions ensure that every engine performs at its peak, no matter the challenge.

MotulTech - The Division Behind All the Innovations

Beyond its motorsport pedigree, Motul has made significant strides in industrial lubrication. MotulTech, the company's industrial division, provides advanced lubrication solutions to improve performance and productivity in various industries. By anticipating the unique needs of each sector, MotulTech develops tailored solutions that not only enhance performance but also respect the environment and the well-being of workers.

A notable partnership with the Italian company Baraldi cemented MotulTech's position as a leader in lubricants for high-pressure die-casting and aluminum extrusion. With state-of-the-art R&D facilities and in-service monitoring, MotulTech ensures that each product is optimised for maximum efficiency and longevity.

Entry into the Indian Market

Motul made its entry into the Indian market in 2003 through a partnership with Atlantic Lubricants and Specialities Limited (ALSL), which is part of the Standard Grease Group based in Mumbai. This collaboration allowed Motul to manufacture and market its products locally. ALSL operates a high-tech facility in Silvassa, Maharashtra, under a three-year technical licensing agreement with Motul, covering not only India but also Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan.

Since its inception in India, Motul has positioned itself as a premium brand in the lubricants market, which is estimated to be worth around ₹6,000 crores. Despite facing strong competition from public sector oil companies, Motul has carved out a niche for itself, achieving approximately 1% market share. The brand has been recognised as one of the fastest-growing lubricant brands in the country.

Motul’s Product Portfolio

Motul offers an extensive range of products tailored to meet the diverse needs of the automotive and industrial sectors. Key products include:

Automotive Engine Oils

Motul 300V: A flagship product known for its 100% synthetic formulation.
8100 Series: Designed for modern engines, including variants like 8100 X-clean and 8100 Eco-lite.

Motorcycle Oils

7100 Series: Specially formulated for high-performance motorcycles.
Two-Stroke Oils: Catering to various two-stroke engine requirements.

Industrial Lubricants

Products like Biocool and Supracut, etc are designed for heavy-duty applications and industrial machinery.

Specialty Products

Motul Tech: A line dedicated to diesel engine oils and other specialised lubricants.

Motul Green Mobility and Sustainability

In recent years, Motul has expanded its vision to promote green mobility and renewable energy projects. With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and cycling, Motul is applying its expertise to develop lubricants and fluids suited to these emerging technologies. This forward-thinking approach ensures that Motul remains at the forefront of innovation, supporting sustainable practices while continuing to meet the evolving needs of the automotive and industrial sectors.

For over 170 years, Motul has stayed true to its core values of innovation, quality, and performance. The company’s journey from a small lubricant manufacturer to a global leader in high-performance oils indicates that it will continue to provide top-tier solutions for every engine, every machine, and every challenge that lies ahead.