The share of gasoline with improved properties reaches up to 30 % of the total production of gasoline in the world. The main component of the additive packages for these fuels is a detergent additive. However, to ensure significant environmental, economic and power effects, additional substances that modify the surface of fuel system elements and reduce friction losses are required. These substances are known as friction modifiers. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in their importance due to the tightening requirements for the efficiency of internal combustion engines (ICEs) and the increased share of gasoline engines with direct fuel injection. The current research presents the results of a systematic analysis of existing materials in the field of development and functional properties of friction modifiers. The objective is to determine the magnitude of their real impact on fuel performance. This includes the ability to increase the efficiency of ICE and reduce its fuel consumption, thereby reducing the carbon footprint. Furthermore, the most common types of friction modifiers in commercial additives from various manufacturers are presented, and existing approaches to the mechanism of action of these components are studied in order to identify the most effective additive structure. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.