Stellantis to Eliminate Chrome in New Vehicles Due to Health Risks

Stellantis, the company behind Jeep and Dodge, has announced its decision to discontinue the use of chrome plating in new vehicles citing concerns over health risks associated with the production process. This move comes in response to findings that Chromium-6, a key component in chrome plating, poses potential health hazards, especially to workers exposed during the manufacturing process.

Transition to Safer Alternatives

According to CNN reports, Stellantis is set to introduce new designs that will replace chrome accents with alternative finishes, such as black coatings. The decision marks a significant shift away from the traditional use of chrome to convey luxury or prevent corrosion in vehicles.

Health and Environmental Concerns

While the absence of chrome in the new vehicle models is not expected to pose a direct threat to consumers, the use of hexavalent chromium, also known as chromium-6, has been linked to increased risks of cancer among workers. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) states that workers exposed to chromium fumes or contact with the substance face higher chances of developing lung, nasal, and sinus cancers.

Furthermore, chromium pollution raises environmental alarms as it can contaminate soil, crops, and ecosystems, leading to potential ecological damage. An incident in 2019 involving a hexavalent chromium spill from an electroplating plant resulted in the closure of a Detroit interstate to prevent water contamination.

Industry Response and Future Outlook

The National Association for Surface Finishing, representing chrome platers and related industries, acknowledged the need to shift towards safer and more sustainable alternatives. While efforts are being made to enhance safety measures, finding a replacement that matches the quality and aesthetic appeal of chrome remains a challenge.

Stellantis' chief global designer, Ralph Gilles, highlighted the difficulties in replicating the allure of traditional chrome finishes with safer alternatives like trivalent chrome, which may lack the same level of brilliance. The company aims to explore innovative design approaches, such as utilizing blacked-out models and alternative materials like polished stainless steel, albeit at a higher production cost.

Promoting New Design Trends

In lieu of traditional chrome elements, Stellantis intends to embrace entirely new design concepts to captivate consumers. Models like the Chrysler Pacifica S Package showcase a shift towards black finishes for trim pieces and badges, offering a fresh aesthetic appeal. By encouraging customers to embrace these novel design choices, Stellantis aims to redefine the perception of vehicle luxury and style.

As Stellantis embarks on this strategic shift away from chrome-plated parts, the automotive industry awaits further developments in design innovation and sustainability practices. The company's proactive approach towards addressing health and environmental concerns signifies a commitment to driving positive change within the automotive sector.

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By: insider@insider.com (Jaures Yip)
Title: Stellantis to Eliminate Chrome in New Vehicles Due to Health Risks
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/jeep-dodge-ram-fiat-maserati-stop-using-chrome-2024-6
Published Date: Fri, 14 Jun 2024 19:23:49 +0000