A process for the production of multi-layer coatings in A′ color shades, comprising the successive steps: 1) applying a base coat layer in a total process film thickness in the range from 10 to 35 μm to a substrate provided with an EDC primer, 2) applying a clear coat layer onto the base coat layer, 3) jointly curing the base coat and clear coat layers, wherein the base coat layer is applied in a first layer of a modified water-borne base coat modAB prepared by mixing an unmodified, water-borne base coat A with an unmodified water-borne base coat B and with a pigment-free admixture component and in a second layer of the unmodified water-borne base coat A.