BASF has presented Routing, its new collection of automotive colour trends for 2024 and 2025.
The Coatings division of the specialty chemicals manufacturer BASF has recently presented Routing, its collection of automotive colour trends
for 2024 and 2025 that aims to inspire designers around the globe. Referring to the concept from communication technology signifying how information is transmitted, the colour collection showcases redefined palettes with new nuances to reds, blacks, metallics – with sustainability and functionality at the core, as the colour have been developed using renewable, recycled and bio-based materials.
Every year, the colour experts of the company study future trends, which they use as foundation for the development of surface, texture and colour positions from a wide range of areas, including industry, fashion, consumer products, nature and technology. The research is then shared with the automotive customers, to drive future mass production plans.
“In our trend observations, we have identified the way we communicate and handle information with human or non-human intelligence as a strong driver for trend developments. Communication is lively, ever-changing and mutually receptive – just like colours,” has stated Mark Gutjahr, the global head of the Automotive Color Design unit of BASF.
More specifically, the new trends feature reds with intense purple shades, signifying a shift from darker and blueish reds, while the dark achromatic colours have been energised by intense effects, offering dynamism beyond solid black. Moreover, fine metallic effects are particularly characterised by strong effects on the surface, which give metallics new radiance.
Overall, the spectrum of pastel colours continues to diversify, for example in beige and light green tones already available in the market, as well as in unusual intermediate tones. Finally, colours have been optimised for sensor-based driving systems. As automotive OEM customers rely on the BASF colour trends to design their future models, end customers may witness the new direction on the road or in their driveways within the next three to five model years.
Europe, Middle East and Africa: a deep black hue enlightened by sustainability
In the EMEA - Europe, Middle East and Africa region, Harbinger’s Ink has emerged as a powerful key colour
based on the awareness that natural resources are finite. With a unique and unseen sparkle effect, it is enhanced by the combination of carbon-negative and renewable components, as well as biodegradable pigments.
“Harbinger’s Ink represents the crucial integration of environmental responsibility into automotive design. It signs the deal for a direct connection from a strong colour position to a sustainable concept,” has declared Gutjahr.
Asia-Pacific: metallic and sustainable concepts on a new path
Scintillation stands out in the Asia-Pacific region with its smart warm grey and liquid metal effect designed by a novel low-emission basecoat technology. The colour implies the future affinity between human and non-human intelligence and enhances the brand value of high-end vehicles and their quality and sustainability.
“Scintillation captures the drive for refined yet forward-looking design of the region, aligning with its focus on creating high-quality as well as sustainable automotive solutions that resonate with both technological advancement and enduring values,” has commented Chiharu Matsuhara, the head of the Automotive Color Design unit of BASF for the Asia-Pacific region.
North, Centre and Sout America: where dual hues appear to synthesise as one
In the Americas region, Holding Sway is a prominent colour that signifies the merging of dual hues and cooperative energies, featuring an intense purple shade with strong blueish shift effect.
“In various facets of society, diverse influences come together and inspire innovative solutions for products. By creating connections and bridging opposites, new opportunities and spaces emerge for the way people consume, communicate and experience mobility. In Holding Sway, the value of transparent and cooperative energies merging to form innovative paths are symbolised,” has concluded Lizzie-Marie, Lead Color Designer for the Americas region