PPG reveals 2026 automotive colour trends in Shanghai

PPG has unveiled its 2026 automotive colour trends at a briefing in Shanghai, with the annual report themed around “Parallels” to reflect what the coatings supplier described as the duality of global influences and personal expression. The collection names Secret Safari, a mid-tone yellow-green, as the 2026 colour of the year.

The Parallels theme includes three curated palettes: Authentic, Visionary, and Expressive. PPG said Secret Safari’s colour-shifting properties under different lighting conditions suit both off-road vehicles and sports cars, with applications across body panels, wheels, and trim parts.

In a statement, Cindy Li, Senior Styling Manager for Asia Pacific at PPG Automotive OEM Coatings, said: “Secret Safari embodies the desire for resilience and fresh sophistication. Its ability to change under different lighting conditions adds a layered depth that aligns with the multifaceted lifestyles of today’s drivers.”

PPG highlighted several collaborations in the Chinese market, including a joint colour creation lab with Chery, the development of a custom Argyle Purple for BYD Yangwang, and a project with Xiaomi to design 100 new colours over the next three years.

Source: PPG