Tata Motors and Castrol India launch used engine oil recycling pilot in Karnataka

Tata Motors and Castrol India Limited have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish a traceable system for collecting and recycling used engine oil in Karnataka. This marks Castrol's first original equipment manufacturer (OEM) partnership focused on lubricant circularity in India.

Key Highlights

• Tata Motors and Castrol India sign MoU for used engine oil recycling in Karnataka.
• The pilot programme will use Tata Motors service points as collection sites for used oil.
• Castrol India will channel collected oil to registered recyclers, ensuring traceability.
• Initiative supports circularity and addresses hazardous waste management in the automotive sector.

MoU Details and Pilot Programme

The agreement introduces a pilot program that aims to create a structured and traceable process for the collection, storage, and channelization of used engine oil. Tata Motors' authorized sales and service touchpoints in Karnataka will serve as designated collection points for used oil generated during vehicle servicing.

​Castrol India will manage the channelization of collected oil to registered recyclers. The company will use its lubricant expertise to ensure quality and traceability throughout the recycling process. This initiative addresses a gap in the management of used oil, which is classified as hazardous waste, and supports the development of a more organized recycling ecosystem in the automotive sector.

Industry Perspectives and Sustainability Goals

Vikram Agrawal, Head of Spares and Non-Vehicle Business at Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, stated that responsible used-oil management is essential for building a circular automotive ecosystem in India. He noted that the partnership connects collection at service touchpoints to high-quality re-refined output.

Anoop Jindal, Vice President of B2B (OEM) Sales at Castrol India, described the collaboration as Castrol's first OEM partnership focused on structured used-oil management in the country. He explained that insights from Castrol's previously used-oil collection pilots in southern India shaped the new program. Jindal added that the partnership with Tata Motors' service network could help create a more organized and scalable model for used oil recycling.

The MoU builds on the existing relationship between Tata Motors and Castrol India. It aligns with both companies' sustainability objectives. Tata Motors is expanding into electric and compressed natural gas (CNG) mobility, while Castrol is working to incorporate recycled materials into its lubricant products.

Company Backgrounds

Tata Motors is part of the Tata Group and is listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE). Castrol India, a subsidiary of the BP Group, has operated in India for 115 years. The company runs three blending plants and supplies a network of more than 150,000 retail outlets.

Also Read: Tata Motors and HPCL Pilot used lubricant recycling initiative in India

CarBike 360 Says

This pilot project marks a significant step toward sustainable automotive practices in India, showcasing how industry leaders can collaborate to tackle environmental challenges. If successful, the initiative could set a benchmark for responsible waste management nationwide, encouraging broader adoption of circular economy principles while reinforcing Tata Motors and Castrol India’s commitment to a greener future.