BASF Coatings’ international design team has released its global trend report. In the report, color experts from Asia, North America and Europe provide a forecast of the automotive colors of the future.

SOUTHFIELD, MI – BASF Coatings’ international design team has released its global trend report. In the report, color experts from Asia, North America and Europe provide a forecast of the automotive colors of the future. The forecast is based on in-depth research of social developments and fashion trends.

Global trends are expressed by different colors, depending on the region. People from various regions often have different color perceptions that are influenced by culture. There is no one single global megatrend.

The ecology movement is continuing around the globe. However, there is a shift from ecological activism to more realistic approaches. As a result, the image of ecology is changing. Prosperity – even luxury – and ecology are no longer perceived as mutually exclusive concepts.

This type of connection can be observed among the colors in North America. The trend toward blues is continuing. Earth tones reflect the new ecological awareness. The new impression of “green luxury” appears in combination with a subtle or significantly reduced sparkle. This trend is also embodied by the colors mushroom, mint or broken white.

Our world is marked by rapid technological progress. Humans and technology are coming closer together. For this reason, colors have a very artificial effect. On the other hand, they are also derived from humans, as exemplified by skin-toned silver. We will be able to see colors like LED blue, brilliant turquoise, sparkling black or bright red in the future. Matte finishes especially reinforce the technical impression.

Migration, diversity and cultural identity are shaping the image of society. Cultural diversity is also accompanied by a new type of color. Starting with various browns with subtle effects that connect to home and one’s own roots, the trend is also moving toward exotic and bold, brilliant colors such as yellow, violet and emerald.

Another driving force among the trends is individualism. This is expressed in the colors that stand for something new or unique.

The drive towards innovation is based in two areas: the coatings technology and the colorants used to combine and bring out special properties. BASF Coatings’ design departments work closely with technical groups to identify products showing the greatest promise in color.

A new Web site takes visitors on a virtual tour through the work and presentation rooms of the BASF Coatings’ Design Studio in Münster, Germany. To start exploring, visit www.colordesign.basf.com.