The inclusion of receptacles for cigarette disposal was once a standard feature in automobiles. These small compartments, often accompanied by a cigarette lighter, were designed for driver and passenger convenience related to smoking. Their presence reflected the prevalence of smoking within society and the automotive industry’s catering to this consumer behavior.
The shift away from this integrated feature occurred gradually. Several factors contributed, including increased awareness of the health risks associated with smoking, evolving social norms that discouraged smoking in enclosed spaces, and changing consumer preferences. Automakers responded to these trends by phasing out the dedicated ashtrays, replacing them with alternative storage solutions or accessory power outlets.
