The people who choose colours for cars are among capitalism's great inter-disciplinarians. They consider economics, politics, social developments, racial and ethnic demographics, cultural differences, clothing trends, developments in the home furnishings and entertainment industries, and myriad other factors as they try to anticipate future.

It is, therefore, of no small significance to know that, after nearly half a century in disfavour, yellow is back.

According to automotive designers, the reappearance of yellow, along with various shades of orange and purple, is appropriate for the current state of the US economy. It is booming.

There's a general national optimism. And since neighbours tend to frown on sunburstyellow homes, people feel like expressing themselves and their passions through their cars.

Be warned: the US today, Europe tomorrow.