[ricc]

I remember reading somewhere, that the predominant car colours of a certain time are associated or correlated to the economic outlook of the day. Maybe that's what's at play here?

[slowmovintarget]

Yep. Same for fall fashions. Muted colors on cars and for clothing indicate pessimism.

So the headline is misleading. It isn't like we'll never have brightly colored cars again, it's that consumers aren't buying them right now.

[pureliquidhw]

I'd wager in bad economic times if someone can afford a new car, they would buy something more subdued as to not stand out. In good economic times they wouldn't feel that same social pressure?

Kind of like choosing an outfit for a funeral vs a birthday party.