Blue is the fastest growing vehicle colour across the planet. Despite white continuing to lead in popularity, the latest PPG automotive colour trends and data shows that blue is on the rise – increasing by three percent as a preference for luxury, midsize and compact cars in 2016 and continuing the upward trend globally in 2017 with an increase of five percent for luxury cars.
Although blue may soon become more noticeable in the marketplace, the type of vehicles it is applied to varies dramatically depending on the region. For example, North American consumers prefer their luxury cars finished in blue, whereas in China it is a top choice among mini cars buyers and in Europe blue is most popular on sports cars. In another pointer to this trend, blue has continued to dominate the North American International Auto Show over the past four years, with features being the Buick Avista concept car, Audi Sport, Volvo S90 and S60, as well as on various Mercedes, Porsche and Lexus models.
PPG offers vehicle OEMs a unique insight into future colour trends, according to Jane Harrington, PPG Manager, automotive colour styling.
"PPG’s leading position in paint and colour forecasting allows us to analyse cross-cultural and cross-industry trends with our 20 global colour stylists from seven countries. 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, grey 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."
Harrington also noted that the comforting neutrals which consumers are craving in fashion, technology and in their homes, has seen silver and grey continue to be popular in automotive colours across all types of vehicles due to slight nuances in colour and classic roots. Chameleon-like hues that have grey and blue undertones remain top choices among consumers, as they represent calm, comfort and a middle ground.
PPG automotive colour preferences by region for 2017 include:
Asia Pacific: At a staggering 44%, white easily remained the region’s most popular. It is trailed by black (15%), silver (10%) and natural (10%), which includes gold, beige, orange and brown hues.
Europe: White (32%), grey (18%), black (17%) and silver (9%) remained almost consistent with 2016, while blue saw an increase in consumer preference to 9%.
North America: White (25%) remained steady as the top preference, while black (21%) and grey (17%) rose by 2% and 5%, respectively. Silver (13%) dropped 6%, followed closely by red and blue (both 10%).
South America: White (38%) continued to dominate, while silver (31%) was close behind, rising 2% over prior year. Black (10%), grey (9%) and red (8%) remained other popular choices.
