cigarette dispenser for car The History of Cigarette Dispensers in Cars

‍
Car with a built-in cigarette dispenser

Introduction

Cigarette smoking was once a ubiquitous habit, and it is hard to comprehend its prevalence in the past. In an era where smoking was the norm, cars even came equipped with built-in cigarette dispensers to make smoking on the go more convenient. Today, we take a dive into the history of cigarette dispensers in cars and explore how this unique feature was integrated into automotive design.

The DeSoto Special Plastic Steering Wheel

One of the earliest examples of a car with a built-in cigarette dispenser was the 1942 DeSoto. This vehicle offered a revolutionary option called the “Fifth Avenue Ensemble,” which included the Special Plastic Steering Wheel with a built-in cigarette case. The steering wheel featured an oblong center hub that housed a reserve of 14 cigarettes. With a simple tug of a knob, a cigarette would pop out vertically from the top right of the steering wheel hub.

Interestingly, the Fifth Avenue Ensemble package was targeted specifically towards women, as the marketing copy emphasized the convenience and elegance of the cigarette dispenser. However, it’s worth noting that men were also avid smokers at the time, raising questions as to why this feature was perceived as more feminine.

The Pervasiveness of Smoking in the Past

To fully appreciate the significance of cigarette dispensers in cars, it’s important to understand the pervasiveness of smoking in the past. Smoking was not only socially acceptable but expected. It was a common vice that permeated all aspects of life, including the design of automobiles. While today we prioritize cupholders and other amenities, in the past, the focus was on making smoking as effortless as possible.

The Rise and Fall of Cigarette Dispensers

During the mid-20th century, several automakers experimented with integrating cigarette dispensers into their vehicles. Brands like DeSoto, Cadillac, and Chevrolet offered this feature as an optional extra. However, as societal attitudes towards smoking began to change and regulations on smoking in public spaces tightened, the demand for cigarette dispensers in cars diminished.

The cultural shift away from smoking, coupled with the increased awareness of the health risks associated with tobacco, ultimately led to the decline and eventual discontinuation of cigarette dispensers in cars. Today, these features are considered relics of a bygone era, a reminder of the prevalence of smoking in the past.

The Legacy of Cigarette Dispensers in Cars

Although cigarette dispensers are no longer a standard feature in modern vehicles, their legacy lives on. They serve as a testament to the cultural and societal changes surrounding smoking. While smoking was once portrayed as glamorous and sophisticated, it is now widely recognized as a health hazard. The absence of cigarette dispensers in cars symbolizes society’s collective effort to promote healthier lifestyles.

Conclusion

The integration of cigarette dispensers in cars was a unique feature that reflected the prevailing smoking culture of the past. The 1942 DeSoto and other vehicles from that era showcased the automakers’ dedication to providing convenience and luxury to their customers. However, as attitudes towards smoking evolved and health concerns grew, cigarette dispensers gradually disappeared from automotive design.

Today, we can look back at these features as relics of a different time, a reminder of the cultural shifts surrounding smoking. While cigarette dispensers may no longer be a part of our modern vehicles, they serve as a testament to the changing perceptions of smoking and our ongoing efforts to promote healthier lifestyles.

So, the next time you step into a car equipped with cupholders and other modern amenities, take a moment to appreciate the absence of a built-in cigarette dispenser. It’s a small reminder of how far we’ve come in our understanding of the dangers of smoking and the importance of prioritizing our health.

Now, let’s explore some related resources and articles to further enhance your knowledge on this intriguing topic.