Automotive Color Trends 2024 - 2025 from BASF

Automotive color trends are compiled annually by the designers of BASF's Coatings division to create a new color collection. The leitmotif of the Automotive Color Trends 2024 -2025 is "Routing" in reference to communication technology.

Routing as the leitmotif of BASF's Automotive Color Trends 2024-2025 refers to the concept of "routing" in communication technology, i.e. the way in which information is transmitted. "In our research, we found that the way we communicate with people or artificial intelligence and process information is a strong driver for the development of new trends," explains Mark Gutjahr, Global Head of Automotive Color Design at BASF. "Communication is alive, is constantly changing and influences each other - just like colors."

Routing reflects the changing face of communication through a diverse color palette, supported by key messages from BASF's design experts. This year's trends include new shades of red with intense violet nuances, with darker and bluish reds taking a back seat. Dark, achromatic shades are given more energy and a dynamic that goes beyond pure black as a solid color thanks to intense color effects. Fine metallic effects are characterized in particular by a strong surface effect that gives metallic colors new radiance. The spectrum of pastel colors is becoming increasingly diverse. For example, beige and light green tones can be found on the market, as well as unusual intermediate shades.

Routing continues to focus on sustainability and functionality. The shades are developed using renewable, recycled and bio-based materials and are optimized for sensor-based driving systems. As OEM customers from the automotive industry rely on BASF's color collection when developing shades for future models, these new shades may be seen on the roads or in driveways in as little as three to five model years.

In the EMEA region, Harbinger's Ink is a powerful key color that reflects the fact that natural resources are finite. The bold black color has a unique and impressive glitter effect, which is enhanced by the combination of CO2-negative and renewable components with biodegradable pigments.

"Harbinger's Ink impressively highlights the importance of incorporating environmental responsibility into automotive design," explains Gutjahr. "The ink creates a direct link between a strong color location and a sustainable concept."

In the Asia-Pacific region, the key color Scintillation is characterized by an elegant, warm grey and the special liquid metal effect created with the help of a new low-emission basecoat technology. This shade alludes to the future affinity between humans and artificial intelligence and increases the brand value of high-end vehicles in terms of quality and sustainability.

"Scintillation taps into the region's trend towards refined yet forward-thinking design," said Chiharu Matsuhara, Head of Color Design for Asia Pacific. "The focus in the Asia Pacific region is on developing high-quality, sustainable automotive solutions that reflect both technological advances and enduring values - and Scintillation fits in perfectly."

In the regions of North and South America, Holding Sway is one of the predominant shades and symbolizes the power of cooperative approaches through the fusion of two nuances. Holding Sway has an intense violet tone with a strong bluish color gradient.

"Different influences come together in different areas of society and provide inspiration for innovative product solutions. By creating connections and overcoming opposites, we create new opportunities and spaces for the way we as humans consume, communicate and experience mobility," explains Lizzie-Marie, Head of Color Design for North and South America. "Holding Sway symbolizes the value of transparent and collaborative energies coming together to create innovative pathways."

Every year, the designers of BASF's Coatings division sound out future trends and use them as the basis for developing new surfaces, structures and color locations. They draw their inspiration from a variety of sources, from industry and fashion to technology, consumer products and nature. These research results are shared with BASF customers from the automotive industry to help shape the future of series production.

In 2024, two colors developed by BASF from the current color collections, Zenomenon and Efflorescence, received the Red Dot Design Award (reported by Oberfläche-Online), one of the world's most prestigious design awards. (OM-10/24)