How to choose the right colour for your vehicle?

Light is safe

It is no secret that the colour of a car affects its visibility on the road. Dark colours are less visible in the evening and at night. In that case, white does better. Grey and silver are also highly visible at night, but during the day these colours blend in a little more with the street scene. Several studies have shown that vehicles with a light, conspicuous colour are less likely to be involved in road accidents.

Every colour has its price

When choosing a colour, it is important to consider the cost as well. Special colours can be significantly more expensive than standard options like black or grey. Many car brands offer some colours at no extra cost. As soon as you deviate from these, you quickly pay 500 euros more. Metallic is also often more expensive, although you do get better value for money: not only does it look nicer, but your bodywork is also better protected. This is because metallic paint gives your vehicle an extra coating.

Practical considerations

Besides personal preference, there are also practical considerations when choosing a colour. For instance, dark colours are more susceptible to scratches and dirt, while lighter colours make scratches less visible. Black is also less resistant to repeated carwashing. Metal paint, on the other hand, is more resistant to dust, but if it needs to be repaired, it will be a lot more expensive.

Eco-friendly colours

The colour of a car can even have an impact on the environment. Dark colours absorb more heat, which can lead to higher energy consumption because you use your air conditioning more often. In that respect, a lighter colour that reflects sunlight is a better option for the environment.

Classic colours get better resale value

Colour also affects the resale value of your vehicle. The better a colour is in the market, the easier the vehicle sells on the second-hand market. According to a BASF survey, white is the most popular colour worldwide. White is chosen for 36% of new cars, followed by black (21%), grey (15%) and silver grey (9%). In Europe too, these four colours account for more than 75% of orders. Leased cars are also more likely to be white, grey, silver grey or black. Furthermore, many employers also choose classic colours that are often seen as stylish.

Iconic colours for iconic cars

In turn, companies that like to stand out or have a well-known corporate identity will opt for an eye-catching colour that suits the corporate culture. There are also cars that just became famous for their striking colour. Think, for example, of a red Ferrari or a yellow Lamborghini. But it doesn't always have to be an exotic model: in the 1990s, the Seat Ibiza was especially popular in yellow.

Choosing the right colour for your car is not a superficial decision. It requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure that the chosen colour is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also practical, safe and even environmentally friendly. Take the time to consider your options and choose a colour that suits you or your business!