Motul (company)
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Lubricants, Chemical |
| Founded | January 1, 1853 |
| Headquarters | France |
| Products | Lubricants and specialized formulations for engines and industrial machinery |
Motul S.A. is a French multinational enterprise engaged in the production, innovation, and distribution of lubricants and specialized formulations designed for engines used in motorcycles, automobiles, various vehicles, as well as industrial machinery.
History
Originating in 1853 in New York under the name Swan & Finch, the firm initially concentrated on premium lubricant products. By the 1920s, it had broadened its reach internationally, exporting several brands including Aerul, Textul, and Motul.
In 1932, Ernst Zaug obtained exclusive rights to distribute Motul goods in France via his company Supra Penn. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of Swan & Finch in 1953, the company introduced Motul Century, recognized as Europe’s inaugural multigrade oil. Following Swan & Finch’s closure in 1957, Supra Penn acquired all Motul patents and trademarks, rebranding itself as Motul S.A., with a strategic focus on its leading product line.
Sports competition
Motul has established itself as a leader in synthetic oils by collaborating with manufacturers and racing teams globally. The company supplies lubricants for premier motorsport competitions such as MotoGP, Superbike, World Rally Championship, and the Le Mans 24 Hours, among others. Motul earned its first Motorcycle World Championship title in 1977 when Takazumi Katayama rode a Yamaha 350.
Standards and certifications
- EAQF certification: class B achieved in 1992, upgraded to class A since 1994
- ISO 9001 certification obtained from 1996 onward
- QS9000 standards compliance recognized by Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler
- ISO/TS 16949 accreditation granted by the International Automotive Task Force
- NMMA approval for oils used in water sports