Engine oils in Asia tend to lag behind oils from Europe and the Americas in their ability to prevent deposits around piston ring belts, while Asian and European oils lag those from the Americas in terms of fuel efficiency.

Having the world's largest automobile market as their home creates opportunities for Chinese car and truck makers. But they also face big challenges, according to one observer, who says domestic independents need to reduce air emissions and improve their global business structures.

India recently announced a new schedule of mandates to raise the fuel efficiency of passenger cars over the next eight years. Observers say the rules will compel automakers to invest in new technologies and should help spur use of higher quality lubricants.