Automotive experts Zachary Crockett, Tom Crockett, Mark Gutjahr, and Nikkie Riedel discuss the shift in car color preferences, exploring historical trends, Subaru's innovative colors, and the impact of colors on market preferences and resale value.
Car color trends are shifting towards more subdued shades for younger buyers, while boomers prefer brighter hues.
External factors such as technology and culture influence car color trends as seen with the rise of silver influenced by Apple's white iPod.
Deep dives
Evolution of Car Colors
Car colors have evolved over time, with past decades showcasing a wide array of vibrant choices like green, blue, and yellow. In contrast, modern cars predominantly come in acromatic colors like black, white, gray, and silver. Despite more color options currently available, younger buyers tend to opt for the more subdued shades, with boomers leaning towards brighter hues. This shift in color preferences reflects changing consumer tastes over the years.
Impact of External Factors on Color Trends
External factors, such as technological advancements and cultural influences, play a significant role in determining car color trends. The rise of silver as a popular car color was influenced by emerging technologies like Apple's iPod, which popularized white as a symbol of advancement and tech-savviness. Practical considerations, like improved fuel economy and reduced emissions for lighter colors, also impact color choices in the automotive industry.
Consumer Preferences and Market Dynamics
Successful car companies, like Subaru, cater to consumer preferences for both bold and muted colors. They carefully balance their color offerings to meet customer demands while maximizing sales. Data analysis from dealerships helps companies adjust production based on regional preferences and generational trends. The resale value of cars is also affected by color, with brighter hues often retaining more value compared to mainstream colors like black and white.
So many vehicles on the road today are white, black, or gray — but automotive designers find that consumer preferences may be changing lanes. Zachary Crockett surveys the lot.