- Stellantis, parent company of Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Chrysler, is made with chrome
- Moving away from chrome is a health-related decision, according to design chief Ralph Gilles
- VW is making a similar move and sees light as the new chrome
Stellantis declared the “death of chrome” over environmental concerns and health concerns for workers who produce the metal finishes, said design chief Ralph Gilles in a recent interview with CNN.
Hexavalent chromium, the form of the element chromium used in chrome plating, is a carcinogenic and the “second most potent toxic air contaminant identified by the State”, the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the agency responsible for California’s emissions regulations, said in a statement to CNN. Chrome-plated parts are not inherently dangerous, but the galvanizing process runs the risk of releasing hexavalent chromium vapor into the atmosphere or exposing workers.
![2024 Jeep Wagoneer S 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S](https://thegurumedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/jeep_100931189_l.webp.webp)
2024 Jeep Wagoneer S
There are methods to minimize human exposure to hexavalent chromium; the National Surface Finishing Association trade group told CNN as well that the galvanizing industry “has achieved an approximately 99.9% reduction in air emissions of hexavalent chromium since 1995.” But California now plans to ban the use of the chrome material, according to the report.
Stellantis is also looking for alternatives. O Jeep Wagoneer S electric SUV It won’t be available with chrome, and that will also be the case for other future Stellantis models, Gilles told CNN.
![2024 Jeep Wagoneer S 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S](https://thegurumedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/jeep_100931187_l.webp.webp)
2024 Jeep Wagoneer S
The initial launch edition of the Wagoneer S features a blacked-out finish, which is a possible alternative to chrome, Gilles said, noting the current popularity of the blackout exterior trim packages. The contrast offered by materials with a more matte finish, such as satin steel, or a different color can also be attractive, Gilles said, pointing to bronze, silver or graphite finish pieces as additional chrome alternatives.
The Volkswagen Group also plans to reduce its use of chrome, the automaker said in a statement to CNN, but not just with different materials. The automaker said it is also “using light as the new chrome.” Recent VW models illuminated sports badges that outshine the chrome – literally.
The BMW Group’s Mini brand has also eliminated chrome in its latest range, both on the exterior and cabin of vehicles.