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- The era of chrome is officially over for Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep, Dodge, Ram, and Chrysler
- Parting ways with chrome is a decision driven by health concerns, as stated by design chief Ralph Gilles
- Volkswagen is following suit, shifting its focus to light as the modern equivalent of chrome
Stellantis has proclaimed the end of chrome due to environmental worries and the health risks posed to workers involved in crafting the metallic adornments, as revealed by design head Ralph Gilles in a recent interview with CNN.
Hexavalent chromium, the variant of chromium used in chrome plating, is a carcinogenic substance and is classified as the “second most potent hazardous airborne contaminant recognized by the state,” as reported by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the entity overseeing emissions regulations in California, to CNN. Though chrome-plated components themselves are not inherently perilous, the plating process carries the risk of releasing hexavalent chromium vapor into the air or exposing workers to the substance.
2024 Jeep Wagoneer S
There are measures in place to limit human contact with hexavalent chromium; the National Association for Surface Finishing, a trade association, informed CNN that the plating sector has managed to reduce hexavalent chromium air emissions by approximately 99.9% since 1995. However, California is presently considering a ban on chrome plating involving this substance, as per the report.
Stellantis is actively exploring alternatives. The Jeep Wagoneer S electric SUV will not incorporate any chrome, and this will extend to other forthcoming Stellantis models, as stated by Gilles in the CNN interview.
2024 Jeep Wagoneer S
The inaugural Launch Edition of the Wagoneer S boasts darkened fittings, one potential alternative to chrome, as highlighted by Gilles, who observed the rising popularity of blackout exterior trim options. The appeal of materials with a matte finish, like satin steel, or a different hue could offer a distinctive look, Gilles suggested, mentioning bronze, silver, or graphite-hued accents as further alternatives to chrome.
Volkswagen Group is also set to limit chrome usage, as confirmed in a statement to CNN, but not solely by introducing different materials. The automaker shared its strategy of using light as a replacement for chrome. Recent VW models exhibit illuminated emblems that surpass chrome in their luminosity.
BMW Group’s Mini brand has similarly phased out chrome across its most recent lineup, both for the vehicle exteriors and interiors.
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