Used lubricant recycling agreement signed between HPCL and Tata Motors

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Tata Motors have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to pilot a structured framework for the collection, transportation, and recycling of used automotive lubricants in India.

The initiative is designed to support compliance with India’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations while promoting circular economy principles within the automotive and lubricant sectors. Through the collaboration, both companies aim to establish a transparent and traceable ecosystem for managing used lubricants—classified as hazardous waste—from collection and storage to recycling and re-refining into high-quality base oils.

Under the agreement, HPCL will lead the aggregation and logistics of used lubricants through authorized collection channels, ensuring their delivery to registered recycling facilities. Tata Motors will leverage its extensive authorized service network to facilitate systematic collection and encourage responsible disposal practices among vehicle owners and service centers. The pilot program will initially be implemented across selected states and overseen by a joint steering committee comprising representatives from both organizations.

Commenting on the partnership, Ch. Srinivas, Executive Director – Lubes, HPCL, emphasized that true circularity in the lubricant value chain can only be achieved when re-refined base oils are effectively reintegrated into finished lubricant formulations. He described the initiative as a significant step toward developing a scalable and sustainable model that can help reduce the industry's overall carbon footprint.

Vikram Agrawal, Head – Parts and Services, Tata Motors, highlighted the environmental risks associated with improper disposal of used automotive lubricants and noted that the collaboration represents an important move toward organized and responsible recycling. He also acknowledged HPCL as a trusted partner with whom Tata Motors shares a long-standing relationship across multiple business areas.

For the financial year 2025–26, HPCL reported a standalone profit after tax of INR 17,175 crore (USD 1.87 billion). The company holds a market share of approximately 20.27% in India and operates major refineries at Mumbai and Visakhapatnam.

The detailed article is published by https://cv.tatamotors.com/ can be accessed from https://cv.tatamotors.com/news/hpcl-and-tata-motors-partner-to-develop-scalable-circular-economy-model-for-used-automotive-lubricants