According to the DuPont 2007 Global Automotive Color Popularity Report, silver no longer is the undisputed color champion of the automotive world.

After seven years in first place, silver ran into tough competition this year with white/white pearl rising to the lead color choice for vehicles in one key region and two countries.  In North America, white/white pearl, silver and black/black effect are in a virtual tie for first, with white/white pearl narrowly taking the top spot, according to the report issued by the DuPont Automotive Systems.  White overcame silver in Japan and is the decisive leader in Mexico, more than doubling the popularity of gray.

DuPont has tracked color statistics for more than 55 years and reports converging trends in color preference.  This year, DuPont sees white/white pearl as a trend-shifting color, and anticipates the new black metallic and other color effects will show an increase in popularity over time.  Red also continues to gain ground and is ensuring a more vividly colored outlook in nearly all segments. 

“Our customers are looking at niche colors and effects, including matte finishes and warm neutrals with effect,” said Karen Surcina, color marketing and technology manager, DuPont Automotive Systems.  “The rise in popularity of white/white pearl and the long reign of silver suggest that we can expect a more dramatic shift in the top color choice.”

The report remains the industry’s authoritative standard for analyzing and predicting vehicle color trends based on consumer choices.  While the DuPont study is a benchmark for the automotive industry, its influence reaches beyond the automotive segment to other industries including home furnishings, consumer electronics and fashion.