Axalta Announces Orange ‘Solar Boost’ as its 2026 Global Automotive Color of the Year
Bold and brilliant orange invokes a sense of optimism and energy that meets consumers’ emerging preferences for expressive colours and modern finishes
Axalta Coating Systems 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-coloured flakes to deliver a confident, exceptional expression that radiates from sunrise to sunset.
“A vehicle’s colour heavily shapes its initial perception, affecting how buyers feel about its safety, sportiness, elegance and even resale value, making colour 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 colour 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 colours beyond traditional neutrals, particularly among younger and trend-conscious buyers.
Grounded in Axalta’s global colour research, orange is emerging as a shade that connects emotional expression around the world. In North America, it evokes warmth, optimism, and creative energy, often linked to friendliness and bold lifestyle branding or streetwear. In Latin America, it reflects vibrancy and celebration, symbolizing life and joyful expression. Across Asia Pacific, bold and saturated hues continue to gain traction, including orange shades and accents which are increasingly used to help vehicles project identity and stand out in fast-growing segments such as EVs. Solar Boost captures that shared sense of positivity and momentum, making it a powerful statement colour for drivers who want their vehicles to reflect individuality and confidence.
“Solar Boost is the result of our team’s deep experience in both the art and science of colour,” 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 colour; then we apply our expertise in colour science, optics, and coating formulations to transform colour into a manufacturable coating that is beautiful, durable and sustainable.”