PPG sets the tone
PPG has unveiled its automotive colour trends and data, citing blue as the fastest-growing colour for automobiles worldwide, while white remains the most popular choice for cars in Europe.
While consumers’ preference for white decreased this year by 1 per cent, from 33% in 2016, the shade remains the overall top pick for vehicles in five of the six European countries surveyed for the data.
As a whole, the colour’s favourability has grown by 5 per cent over the past five years in this region. Throughout Europe, both metallic and solid versions of white are the most popular options for luxury, compact and mini-van automobiles. But, European consumers prefer blue on sports cars more frequently than any other car type.
Jane Harrington, PPG manager, automotive colour styling, said ‘While we know that automotive colour trends are inspired by multiple industries, they are unique compared to fashion or home décor since the trends evolve and change slowly over time instead of significantly year-to-year. While white, black, gray and silver continue to be popular colour choices, we’re seeing a steady increase in the desire for cars in varying blue and brown shades.’
Comforting neutrals that consumers are craving in fashion, technology and their homes cause silver and grey to continue to be popular in automotive colours across all types of vehicles due to slight nuances in colour and classic roots, Harrington noted. Chameleon-like hues that have grey and blue undertones remain top choices among consumers, as they represent calm, comfort and a middle ground.
PPG’s CORE Relation automotive colour palettes for 2021 models include the following four colour stories that connect and resonate with current consumer mindsets.
The Retreater theme focuses on the need to retreat from the pressures and overstimulation of technology and 24/7 schedules. It underscores living well, finding quiet time and creating opportunities for calm, balance and peace. The colours are earthen tones inspired by stone, marble, sand and clay paired with white and easy pastel shades.
Dream Weaver trend theme represents a rebellion to live loud, pursue pleasure and revel boldly in life. The eclectic palette expresses decadence and a carefree spirit, reflective of festival-goers and free-spirited consumers.
The Commoner theme represents simplicity without disengaging from the world. Customers attracted to this palette focus on creating a minimalistic lifestyle with an appreciation of no-fuss basics. Key colours for this palette are a mix of almost-primary reds, blues, basic white, natural browns and greens.
The Brave theme represents transformation and strength, a visual reaction to global unrest and uncertainty. There is a secondary underlying quality of elegance and glamour, as this palette integrates opulent jewel tones, such as sapphire, elegant browns and warm neutrals.
