by Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Market is Expected to Witness High Growth Owing to Increased Stringency in Emission Regulations
Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is a liquid solution that is sprayed into the exhaust stream of diesel engines equipped with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. When sprayed into hot exhaust, DEF breaks down into ammonia and that ammonia helps to convert nitrogen oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen and water vapor before exiting the tailpipe. DEF helps diesel-powered vehicles and equipment meet strict emissions regulations and improve air quality. The global demand for DEF has increased significantly owing to stringent emission norms which require diesel vehicles to adopt SCR technology for reducing NOx emissions. The Global Diesel Exhaust Fluid Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 11.60 Mn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 7.6% over the forecast period 2023 to 2030.
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the Diesel Exhaust Fluid market are Yara International, BASF SE, CF Industries Holdings Inc., Agrium Inc., and Cummins Inc. These players are focusing on capacity expansion and new product launches to consolidate their market position.
The stringent emission regulations around the world have opened lucrative opportunities for adoption of SCR systems in diesel vehicles and equipment. This is expected to drive the demand for DEF over the forecast period. Technological advancement in SCR systems to reduce overall vehicle cost is also expected to boost the DEF market.
Growth in international trade has led to increased marine and rail freight which utilizes diesel engines. Adoption of marine SCR systems to meet IMO regulations will propel the DEF market. Use of modern agricultural machinery and mining equipment is also anticipated to support the demand for DEF.
Market Drivers
Stringent emission norms by regulatory bodies like EPA and EU have made installation of SCR systems mandatory for diesel vehicles and machinery. Adoption of SCR will continue to drive the DEF market as diesel vehicles rely on DEF for reducing NOx emissions within specified limits. Expanding international freight transport through sea and rail is another factor fueling the demand for DEF.
Current challenges in Diesel Exhaust Fluid Market
The diesel exhaust fluid market faces several challenges currently. Stricter emission norms implemented in countries is increasing pressure on automakers to integrate selective catalytic reduction systems in vehicles. However, managing extensive logistics and supply chain for diesel exhaust fluid across regions poses a major challenge. Additionally, maintaining consistency in quality of diesel exhaust fluid to ensure it doesn’t damage catalytic converters in vehicles is another hurdle. Educating vehicle owners about periodically refilling diesel exhaust fluid also remains a challenge for market players.
SWOT Analysis
Strength: The stringent emission regulations worldwide have increased adoption of SCR systems in vehicles, driving demand. Regulations are getting stricter with each new emission norm, ensuring long term growth.
Weakness: High logistic and distribution costs associated with delivering urea solution across regions impacts margins. Quality consistency issues can damage vehicle parts if not managed properly.
Opportunity: Emerging economies implementing stringent norms at faster pace than anticipated presents new opportunities. Adoption of ISO 22241 diesel exhaust fluid quality standards help mitigate consistency issues.
Threats: Any laxity in regulations or delays in implementation impacts demand growth projections negatively. Substitute technologies like electric vehicles pose a long term threat if costs come down faster.
Geographical regions:
North America and Europe currently account for over 60% of the global diesel exhaust fluid market value owing to stringent emission norms and high vehicle parc in these regions. With regulations tightening, demand for SCR systems and diesel exhaust fluid is increasing.
Fastest growing region:
Asia Pacific region is expected to be the fastest growing in the diesel exhaust fluid market during the forecast period. Countries like China and India are catching up in terms of implementing emission norms. As commercial vehicle markets in these countries expand rapidly, use of diesel exhaust fluid is projected to rise at a quick pace compared to mature markets.
“*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it”
