Silver was the color of choice for seven years, but this year, white/white pearl is reported to be the leading color choice for vehicles in one key region and two countries, according to the DuPont 2007 Global Automotive Color Popularity Report.

In North America, white/white pearl, silver and black/black effect are in a tie for first, with white/white pearl narrowly taking the top spot, according to the report issued by the company's Automotive Systems business. White was more popular than silver in Japan and is the leader in Mexico, more than doubling the popularity of gray.

DuPont tracks color statistics and reports converging trends in color preference. This year, DuPont representatives say they are not surprised to see white/white pearl as a trend-shifting color because it follows global color trends in fashion, home furnishings and other consumer products. The company also predicts the new black metallic and other color effects will show an increase in popularity over time. Red also continues to gain popularity in all segments.