The few sources I looked at point to paint having gone up in price significantly since the 80's, I also know that there are tighter regulations on paint (lead banned in 78 in the U.S. for example). I think dealerships started charging more for specific colors, and ultimately most people don't view their cars as symbols of freedom anymore. Who cares what the thing that brings me to my job looks like? I'd give it and more up to be able to live without working.

I don't think it's about all businesses not giving a shit, times have just changed. If cars being black, white, silver, and grey is the price we pay to not have lead (and other things) in paint — I think it's a fair trade off.

Edit: Some definitely do not give a shit. Nvidia seems to be a business that does not give a fuck who got them to where they are.