Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Chrysler are plotting "death of Chrome" because it is toxic

Stellantis has declared the "death of chrome" on concerns about the environment and the health of workers who produce metal trims, design boss Ralph Gilles said in a recent interview with CNN.

Hexavalent chromium, a form of elemental chromium used in chromium plating, is a carcinogen, the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which is responsible for California emissions regulations, said in a statement to CNN. While chrome-plated parts are not inherently dangerous, the plating process risks releasing hexavalent chromium vapor into the atmosphere or exposing workers.

Methods are in place to minimize human exposure to hexavalent chromium; not only did the National Association of Surface Finishing Trade Groups tell CNN, the plating industry "has been reducing atmospheric emissions of hexavalent chromium since 1995 by about 99.9 percent.""But California is now trying to ban chrome plating using the material, according to the report.

Stellantis is also considering alternatives. The Jeep Wagoneer s electric SUV is not available in chrome at all, and that is also the case with other future Stellantis models, GILLES told CNN.

The first launched version of the Wagoneer S features a dark trim that is one possible alternative to chrome, while the contrast offered by dull finishes and materials of different colors as well as satin steel present in the blacked out exterior trim package could also be attractive, while the Gil is available as an additional chrome alternative.

The Volkswagen Group is also planning to reduce the use of chromium, the automaker said in a statement to CNN, but not only different materials. The automaker also states that it is "using light as the new chrome.""These days VW models are sporting a light-up badge that literally surpasses chrome.

BMW Group's mini brand also eliminated chrome in its latest lineup for both the exterior and cabin of the car.