For the 2021-2022 Automotive Color Trends collection, the designers of BASF's Coatings division have opened up completely new color spaces. Based on a special feature of quantum mechanics, this year's collection is called SUPERPOSITION. This phenomenon describes a state in which the restrictions of binary systems no longer apply.
This means that things are not just black or white, heads or tails or one or zero. There are countless variations in nature - and it is precisely these that are taken up in this collection. It opens up an unlimited design vocabulary that can be both playful and serious, comfortable and stirring or straightforward and chaotic - all at the same time.
EMEA - colors that open your eyes and make you think
The shades for the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region take familiar color ranges and bring change into play with new effects, subtle gradients and sparkle effects. Shades of gray change their appearance depending on the viewing angle, while the bright and reflective shades of blue add texture to the surface.
"These colors are eye-opening and thought-provoking. They represent a superposition of complex nuances that change our perception," says Mark Gutjahr, Head of Automotive Color Design EMEA.
Asia-Pacific - gathering strength and thinking ahead
In the Asia-Pacific region, social change is the biggest trend of 2021, with many using the time to recharge their batteries, think ahead and recharge their batteries for the future.
The similar ideas, products and materials of the past gave way to new flexibility and more freedom. Everyone and everything should be accepted as they are - and this applies not only to people, but also to products and materials. Everything is flexible.
"The key colors in the Asia-Pacific region are bright and clear shades that remind us of spring and the hope it brings," says Chiharu Matsuhara, Head of Automotive Design in Asia-Pacific. "They better capture the immense diversity of our world."
North America - The concept of balance
Future color tone designs in North America will focus on balance and human durability. Optimism and resilience are firmly anchored in these color spaces. They reveal humanity's potential to evolve despite challenges.
"We have struck a balance between the natural and synthetic worlds, developing soothing and enduring hues that are thought-provoking. They open up unique experiences for viewers that work on multiple non-binary levels," says Paul Czornij, Head of Automotive Design for North and South America.
Color expertise from the Coatings division
The Coatings Division's designers observe future trends every year and use them as a basis for developing new surfaces, textures and colors. They draw their inspiration from a variety of sources, from industry and fashion to consumer products and nature. These research results are shared with BASF customers, the designers of car manufacturers, to help shape the future of series production.
