Kline Launches Next Volume in Global Lubricant Additives Analysis

LITTLE FALLS, N.J., Sept. 24 -- Kline & Company announced today that it is undertaking a detailed analysis of the lubricant additives market in Europe as part of its global series of market research reports focusing on this evolving industry. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN LUBRICANT ADDITIVES: Volume II: Europe 2003-2008 will examine the markets for 14 major additive function classes and the leading end uses for these products, as well as major and minor suppliers of these additives to the European market.

The study will explore the major forces currently driving the European automotive and industrial additive market, including the desire of OEMs to extend engine oil drain intervals and enhance the average fuel economy of their vehicles, which is leading to greater use of lighter-viscosity grades (5W and 0W) in passenger cars. The challenge to meet stricter emission regulations is also a key market factor, and imminent Euro 4 standards will require OEMs to include new forms of exhaust after-treatment.

"These three drivers will require the creation of new oil chemistries," says Geeta Agashe, director of the Petroleum & Energy Practice for Kline's research division. "This will include lubricants that are formulated with the reduced use of ZDDP and sulfurized detergents, an increased level of antioxidants and antiwear agents, and new types of friction modifiers. The new formulations will also feature thermally stable, lower-volatility, and zero-sulfur base oils, including esters, PAOs, and GTL and Group III base oils."

"These step changes in performance levels are expected to have a significant impact on the finished lubricants value chain," Agashe adds.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN LUBRICANT ADDITIVES, Volume II: Europe 2003-2008 will focus on the leading countries and regions within Western Europe in terms of additive consumption and will include an overview of Eastern Europe. It will provide a detailed analysis of market size and segmentation, standards and regulations, additive chemistries, treat rates and costs, and competitive forces. The report will also include five-year forecasts for each additive class and end use to help identify and capitalize on market trends and opportunities for growth.

Data for the study will be compiled from approximately 100 interviews with lubricant additive suppliers, finished lubricant formulators and marketers, basestock manufacturers, equipment OEMs, and other industry participants. The study will also draw from information and insights presented in Volume I of this series, which covered the North American market for lubricant additives, as well as Kline's COMPETITIVE INTELLIGENCE FOR THE GLOBAL LUBRICANTS INDUSTRY continuing service. Both of these reports were recently published by Kline.

For information on how to subscribe to any of the volumes in BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN LUBRICANT ADDITIVES: A Global Series, go to www.klinegroup.com/Y162D.htm or contact Geeta Agashe at (973) 435-3484 or geeta_agashe@klinegroup.com. Potential subscribers based in Europe should contact Jonathan Duff at +32 (0) 2 770 4740 or jonathan.duff@kline-europe.com.

Established in 1959, Kline & Company, Inc. (www.klinegroup.com) is an international business consulting firm that offers a broad range of services to the petroleum and energy industry.