North America Viscosity Index Improvers Market by Country, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

The North America Viscosity Index Improvers Market was valued at USD 63.55 Million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 89.12 Million by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 5.80%. Viscosity index improvers are polymer-based chemical additives used to enhance the viscosity-temperature behavior of lubricating oils, ensuring optimal performance across a wide thermal range. These additives are integral to products such as engine oils, transmission fluids, hydraulic fluids, and gear oils.

Growth in the market is driven by the increasing demand for energy-efficient vehicles, stricter emissions standards, and heightened focus on engine longevity and thermal resistance. As modern engines operate under more demanding conditions, the need for lubricants that maintain stable viscosity becomes more critical.

The expanding industrial sectors - particularly construction, agriculture, and manufacturing - are fueling demand for high-performance lubricants. Additionally, the shift toward synthetic and semi-synthetic lubricants due to their enhanced performance is driving higher usage of viscosity index improvers. Even with the rise of electric vehicles, lubricant demand persists for driveline and thermal systems, supporting continued market relevance.

Research and development efforts are further strengthening market growth, with major chemical companies investing in advanced additive technologies to improve performance, stability, and environmental compatibility. The United States continues to lead the regional market due to its mature automotive industry, technological expertise, and consistent innovation in lubricant formulations.

Key Market Drivers

Expansion of Automotive Production and Engine Technology Innovation

The continued growth of the North American automotive industry and the push for innovative, high-performance engines are driving demand for advanced lubricant additives. Automakers are focused on producing vehicles that meet strict environmental standards while delivering fuel efficiency and durability, increasing reliance on multi-grade oils enhanced with viscosity index improvers.

As engines evolve with tighter tolerances, higher operational temperatures, and features like turbocharging, viscosity index improvers play a key role in maintaining lubricant stability and preventing wear. Hybrid and electric vehicles also require effective lubricants for components like transmissions and thermal management systems, further expanding the role of these additives.

The growing preference for synthetic lubricants across both consumer and commercial vehicles is contributing to higher additive consumption. In 2023, the U.S. manufactured about 10.6 million vehicles, reinforcing the need for reliable, temperature-resistant engine oils - underscoring the importance of viscosity index improvers in modern automotive applications.

Key Market Challenges

Fluctuating Prices and Supply Instability of Petrochemical Feedstocks

The North America viscosity index improvers market is challenged by volatility in the cost and availability of petrochemical-based raw materials. These additives are derived from olefin copolymers, polyalkyl methacrylates, and other polymers that rely on crude oil and natural gas feedstocks. Geopolitical instability, refinery outages, and extreme weather events can significantly disrupt supply and cause price spikes.

Structural shifts in refining, with increased emphasis on cleaner fuels, have also reduced the availability of certain petrochemical by-products essential for additive production. As refineries shift toward lower-carbon outputs, securing consistent feedstock supplies becomes more difficult, creating uncertainty for manufacturers.

To maintain cost stability and supply resilience, the industry must consider strategies such as developing alternative feedstocks, backward integration, and securing long-term regional supply agreements.

Key Market Trends

Rising Integration of Viscosity Index Improvers in Electric Vehicle Drivetrain Fluids

An emerging trend in the North America viscosity index improvers market is the increased use of these additives in lubricants tailored for electric vehicle (EV) drivetrains. As EV adoption accelerates, there is a growing demand for lubricants that offer thermal stability and efficient viscosity performance across varied temperatures.

Electric motors, gearboxes, and bearings generate localized heat and require advanced fluids to maintain efficiency and reduce power loss. Viscosity index improvers that provide shear stability and low-temperature fluidity are being adapted for these specialized applications.

Lubricant formulators are investing in EV-specific products incorporating high-performance additives designed to meet stringent performance standards. With EV production growing in the U.S. and Canada, demand for advanced driveline fluids is rising, increasing the need for next-generation viscosity index improvers that meet the thermal and functional requirements of electric mobility platforms.

Key Players Profiled in this North America Viscosity Index Improvers Market Report

• Evonik Industries AG
• Lubrizol Corporation
• Chevron Corporation
• Afton Chemical Corporation
• Infineum International Limited
• BASF SE
• Exxon Mobil Corporation
• Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd.

Report Scope:

In this report, the North America Viscosity Index Improvers Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

North America Viscosity Index Improvers Market, by Type:

• Polymethacrylate
• Olefin Copolymer
• Polyisobutylene

North America Viscosity Index Improvers Market, by End-User:

• Manufacturing
• Food Processing
• Mining
• Construction
• Power Generation

North America Viscosity Index Improvers Market, by Country:

• United States
• Canada
• Mexico

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the North America Viscosity Index Improvers Market.

Available Customizations:

With the given market data, the publisher offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report.

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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