Automotive Color Trends: Surventis Nexistential

Surventis presents Nexistential, its Automotive Color Trends for 2026–2027. The new color collection combines decades of expertise in automotive colors with the latest trends in design and innovation.

Surventis has unveiled Nexistential—the latest edition of its Automotive Color Trends collection and the first as a standalone, independent company. The name Surventis (formerly BASF Coatings) marks a new chapter, yet the foundation remains unchanged: decades of expertise in the development of automotive colors, a passion for design and innovation, and close collaboration with automakers around the world.

Every year, Surventis’ color designers analyze global trends in society, technology, consumer behavior, nature, and mobility. They translate these insights into innovative concepts for colors, surfaces, and textures that shape the Automotive Color Trends collection. Automotive manufacturers worldwide use these trends as inspiration for the development of future vehicles, and their influence is often evident in production models just a few years later.

The “Nexistential” collection theme explores the question of how to find one’s bearings in a world that never stands still. The name connects the idea of the future with the existential questions of our time. It reflects the search for meaning and direction in an increasingly complex world where digital, social, and personal beliefs are being redefined.

Technological innovations, shifting values, environmental challenges, and new lifestyles are continuously transforming how people live, work, and get around worldwide. Rather than waiting for stability to return, however, many are learning to find their own bearings amid this change. This observation of strength and resilience forms the foundation of Nexistential. The Nexistential color palette combines powerful, expressive colors with calm tones. Rich blues, vibrant reds, warm neutrals, and modern pastel shades reflect the desire for stability and progress in today’s world. Specific effect pigments and unique surfaces create impressions that shift depending on the light and viewing angle, lending the colors a dynamic, emotional character.

At the heart of Nexistential are three key regional color tones that reflect different possible responses to the same global reality: transformation. Together, they form a spectrum of rationality and emotion, light and shadow, stability and movement.

“As people increasingly seek experiences that are relevant and authentic, mobility must meaningfully combine physical and digital experiences,” says Mark Gutjahr, Global Head of Design at Surventis. “Colors, materials, and surfaces play an important role in this connection. They help express identity, create an emotional bond, and strengthen the relationship between people and their vehicles.”

Motile Red symbolizes transformation through continuous adaptation. The color combines rich burgundy tones with vibrant red highlights, creating a deep, dynamic look that feels both grounded and energetic. The formulation contains non-fossil raw materials and recycled pigments. It demonstrates how sustainability and innovation can work together to open up new possibilities for automotive color design. Motile Red expresses dynamism and purposeful change. The color points to a future in which progress is defined by the ability to evolve responsibly.

Chromotopic Metal explores the subtle space between white and silver. The color combines the purity and clarity of white with the sophisticated depth of metallic silver, creating a bright, luminous appearance that is both modern and timeless. Advanced mica technology, developed for efficient two-coat paint systems, delivers a distinctive metallic finish while maintaining a crisp visual impact. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Chromotopic Metal reflects the growing desire for clarity and enduring values. The color symbolizes trust, transparency, and the search for meaningful stability.

Horizon Flux reinterprets classic silver from the perspective of change. Inspired by the horizon, this elegant silver subtly shifts with light and movement. This creates an impression of depth, while maintaining a calm and balanced appearance. Horizon Flux is more than just a color: the shade embodies an attitude. It represents the ability to combine strength with flexibility and to adapt to change without losing one’s bearings. The color symbolizes resilience and the confidence to move forward with determination.

Chromotopic Metal, Horizon Flux, and Motile Red capture the essence of Nexistential. Each color offers its own interpretation of direction in times of transformation. Together, they demonstrate how future automotive design can harmonize innovation and humanity, technology and emotion, as well as progress and meaning.

“Nexistential is more than just a color collection,” says Chiharu Matsuhara, Regional Head of Design Asia Pacific at Surventis. “The collection marks the beginning of a new chapter for Surventis. Our name has changed, but our passion for innovation, outstanding design, and collaboration with our customers remains unchanged.” As mobility continues to evolve, Surventis will continue to support automakers in identifying emerging societal changes and translating them into inspiring color concepts that appeal to future buyers. (OM-11/25)