Axalta Coating Systems, a leading global coatings company, has announced its 2026 Global
Automotive Color of the Year — Solar Boost — a warm and inviting orange tone that shimmers with
an energy all its own. Designed for modern vehicles, this boldly dynamic hue is infused with
champagne-colored flakes to deliver a confident, exceptional expression that radiates from sunrise
to sunset, notes a press release from the company.
“A vehicle’s color heavily shapes its initial perception, affecting how buyers feel about its safety,
sportiness, elegance and even resale value, making color a significant influence in the buying
decision,” said Hadi Awada, President, Global Mobility Coatings at Axalta. “In fact, Axalta’s own
research has shown more than 80 percent of buyers consider it a key factor, which is why it’s so
critical for OEMs to understand dynamic global consumer sentiments and align their vehicle color
portfolio accordingly.”
Solar Boost reflects a shift toward individualistic design choices as consumers increasingly seek
vehicles that express personal identity. Its bold hue aligns with growing interest in expressive colors
beyond traditional neutrals, particularly among younger and trend-conscious buyers.
“Solar Boost is the result of our team’s deep experience in both the art and science of color,” said
Robert Roop, Ph.D., Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Axalta. “Elements of
human psychology and popular culture inform our choice of color; then we apply our expertise in
color science, optics, and coating formulations to transform color into a manufacturable coating that
is beautiful, durable and sustainable.”