58 Products and markets Shifting hues in global automotive colors: Embracing the rising popularity of warm niche colors By Jörg Zumkley, Global Communications, BASF Coatings In the annual BASF Color Report for Automotive OEM Coatings, BASF’s Coatings division analyzes the color distribution of the past year in retrospect. The data analysis is based on global automotive production and paint application to non-commercial vehicles in 2024. In 2024, the global automotive color landscape continued to evolve as consumers move away from traditional favorites like white and silver. This shift is paving the way for increased popularity of vibrant hues, warm neutrals, and a more diverse palette across the industry, as stated by BASF Coatings in the latest Color Report for Automotive OEM Coatings. Specifically, while white remains the top choice among consumers, warm shades such as yellow and beige are increasingly appealing, and green has risen in popularity across all regions. Achromatic colors like black and gray are also gaining traction. EMEA: Beige gains popularity as achromatic colors continue steady growth Achromatic colors in the EMEA region have steadily increased from 72% in 2021 to almost 80% in 2024, underscoring the appeal of neutral tones. White remains the most favored color, closely followed by gray. Notably, beige is gaining popularity, nearly doubling its market share. “Beige and neutral colors evoke a sense of calm and sophistication, reflecting the desire for stability in a fast-paced world,” said Mark Gutjahr, global head of Automotive Color Design at BASF. “They allow consumers to express their individuality while ensuring a timeless elegance in automotive design.” Americas: Gray is proving to be one of the most versatile and captivating colors With its vast range of tones, from cool metallics to warm, earthy shades, gray offers depth and sophistication that can be surprisingly vibrant. This year’s color distribution reveals a striking shift toward gray tones, now capturing almost 20% of the total market The Color Report for Automotive OEM Coatings by BASF Coatings analyzes the color preferences on both global and regional levels. Image/Graphic: © BASF
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