Understanding an Arc Flash

Ken Cheng Leave a comment

Understanding an Arc Flash

An arc flash stand as one of the most dangerous electrical hazards encountered in industrial settings. They occur when an electrical current travels through the air between two conductive points, creating an intense burst of heat and light. This sudden, high-temperature discharge of energy can cause severe injury, damage equipment, and even lead to fatalities. While seemingly a rare event, arc flashes occur more than many realize. The consequences if we ignore proper precautions end up being catastrophic.

The energy released during an arc flash can reach temperatures as high as 35,000°F, which is four times the surface temperature of the sun. This extreme heat can vaporize metals like copper and steel, causing molten metal particles to fly through the air. The accompanying pressure wave from the rapid expansion of air can also result in physical injuries, such as hearing damage, lung damage, and blunt-force trauma from projectiles. Additionally, the bright light produced can lead to temporary or permanent blindness. The sheer intensity of them is why it is so critical to understand the risks involved.

Read more: Understanding an Arc Flash

What Causes an Arc Flash?

Several factors can cause an arc flash. These include equipment failure, improper installation, faulty maintenance, or human error. For instance, using improperly rated or damaged tools, dropping metal objects near live equipment, or working on energized systems without proper safety gear can all result in an arc flash. Even something as simple as dust or corrosion on electrical equipment can lower insulation resistance, allowing an arc to form. The likelihood of these events increases significantly in high-voltage environments. Electrical substations or industrial plants that store and manage large amounts of energy daily, often see the highest risk.

The Dangers of an Arc Flash

An arc flash can lead to significant damage to equipment, causing costly downtime and repairs. High-energy ones can destroy electrical panels, cables, and machinery, resulting in production delays and expensive replacements. Worse, if an arc flash ignites nearby flammable materials, it could trigger secondary fires, further escalating the damage. Therefore, many companies invest in preventative measures like sophisticated detection systems and remote operation technology, which allow workers to interact with electrical equipment from a safe distance.

How to Protect Your Equipment

Preventing arc flash incidents starts with the proper training and education of personnel working in environments with electrical systems. Workers need thorough training on how to understand the hazards of arc flashes. The should also know how to identify risks, and the correct safety procedures to follow. One of the most effective preventive measures is to always de-energize electrical equipment before performing any maintenance or repairs. Lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures, which involve isolating the energy source and placing a lock on the equipment to prevent accidental re-energization, are crucial to minimizing the risk of ocurrences.

Another key precaution is the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Workers exposed to potential arc flash hazards should wear flame-resistant (FR) clothing, gloves, and face shields that meet the arc rating required for the specific electrical task. This gear can withstand the high temperatures and energy released during an arc flash which significantly reduces the severity of injuries. Additionally, using safety tools, such as insulated hand tools, reduces the likelihood of accidental contact with live components. It’s also important to maintain a safe working distance from energized equipment, especially in high-voltage environments.

Lastly, routine inspection and maintenance of electrical systems are vital in preventing arc flash incidents. Equipment should be regularly checked for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion, which could compromise insulation and increase the risk of an arc flash. Faulty components should be repaired or replaced promptly. Implementing arc-flash detection and mitigation systems can further reduce risks by automatically shutting down electrical systems if dangerous conditions are detected. By combining proper safety practices, equipment maintenance, and protective measures, companies can significantly lower the chance of arc flash events and protect both workers and equipment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an arc flash is a potentially deadly hazard that demands respect and proper safety measures. Through a combination of education, awareness, and adherence to established safety protocols, the risks of incidents can be minimized. Understanding the causes, consequences, and prevention strategies not only ensures the safety of workers but also helps maintain operational efficiency and reduce the financial impact of equipment failure. Whether you’re an electrician, engineer, or plant manager, prioritizing arc flash safety is a non-negotiable part of protecting both people and infrastructure.

Damaged Part? Need a Replacement?

If you’re experiencing a damaged drive from an arc flash reach out to us! Our team of experts are ready to help you get your operation back up and running in no time. Our customer service team can be reached by email: sales@mroelectric.com or by phone: (800) 691-8511.

If you liked this article, you may enjoy our other article covering “dirty power” and its effects on industrial equipment.

Distributed Control System (DCS) Explained

Brian Hughes Leave a comment

A Distributed Control System (DCS) is a type of automated industrial control system (ICS) used to control geographically distributed processes, such as those in factories, power plants, and other large industrial settings. DCS systems rely on a network of controllers distributed across a facility, allowing for real-time monitoring and control of multiple processes simultaneously. These systems are integral in industries where precise, continuous control is essential. Read on to learn more about the meaning of DCS.

What is a DCS?

A Distributed Control System (DCS) is a computerized control system that streamlines the functionalities of industrial devices used throughout a workspace. A DCS utilizes a wide range of controllers to permit all the parts to converse with one another just as PCs do. These controllers are distributed geographically across a plant to allow for high-speed communication to the control process. When utilizing various kinds of modules, the framework may require diverse correspondence norms, for example, Modbus and Profibus.

What is a Distributed Control System
Distributed Control System Layout
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The Effects of Dirty Power on Electronics

Ken Cheng Leave a comment

The Effects of Dirty Power

In today’s tech-driven world, many of our most valuable devices rely on a clean and stable power supply. But what happens when the power running through your home is less than ideal? This is where “dirty power” comes into play. Dirty power refers to any irregularities or distortions in your electrical supply that can cause serious issues for electronics and appliance.

Read more: The Effects of Dirty Power on Electronics

What is Dirty Power?

Dirty power occurs when electricity deviates from the smooth, stable sine wave it’s supposed to follow. Ideally, your power supply maintains a consistent voltage and frequency, providing energy that flows smoothly to all your devices. However, dirty power can manifest through several types of disturbances, including:

  • Voltage spikes – Sudden increases in voltage.
  • Voltage sags – Short drops in voltage.
  • Harmonic distortion – Alterations in the waveform of electricity.
  • Electrical noise – High-frequency interference from other sources.
  • Power surges – Brief bursts of excess power.

These irregularities can be caused by several factors, such as faulty wiring, poor grounding, nearby heavy machinery, and even power grid fluctuations. Appliances like solar inverters or other power-generating equipment can also introduce distortions into your electrical system.

This drawing represents the sine wave differences in clean vs dirty power.

Dirty Power’s Impact on Industrial Automation

Dirty power can have particularly severe consequences for industrial equipment, as these systems often rely on precise electrical inputs to operate efficiently. Voltage sags or spikes can cause motors to overheat, leading to premature wear and tear on critical components. This not only shortens the lifespan of expensive machinery but can also result in unexpected downtime for repairs, disrupting production schedules. Additionally, sensitive industrial equipment like programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and automated systems may malfunction or produce faulty outputs when exposed to harmonic distortion or electrical noise, increasing the risk of operational errors and product defects.

The financial impact of dirty power on industrial operations can be significant. Frequent power irregularities can lead to higher energy consumption as machines work harder to compensate for unstable electrical inputs, driving up utility costs. Furthermore, unplanned equipment failures can incur expensive repair and replacement costs. In industries where precision is paramount—such as manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or data centers—dirty power can cause costly errors, affecting product quality and regulatory compliance. Protecting industrial equipment with solutions like power line conditioners, voltage regulators, and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) is essential to ensuring both the reliability and efficiency of operations.

Protecting Your Equipment from Dirty Power

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to safeguard your home and electronics from the negative effects of dirty power.

Install Surge Protectors

One of the easiest ways to protect your devices from voltage spikes is by using surge protectors. These devices absorb excess energy before it can reach your electronics, preventing damage from sudden power surges.

Use an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

A UPS is a backup power system that kicks in during power sags or outages, keeping your devices running smoothly. Many UPS units also include built-in power conditioning features that filter out dirty power to ensure a steady electrical flow.

Invest in Power Line Conditioners

Power line conditioners are designed to regulate and stabilize voltage, filtering out any irregularities in the electrical supply. By using these devices, you can ensure that your electronics receive consistent, clean power.

Use Dedicated Circuits for Sensitive Equipment

Sensitive electronics like computers, home theater systems, and medical equipment can benefit from being placed on dedicated circuits. These circuits help to minimize interference from other devices and reduce the likelihood of voltage fluctuations.

Schedule Regular Electrical Maintenance

Having an electrician inspect your facility’s wiring and grounding system periodically can help identify potential problems before they cause serious damage. Proper maintenance of your electrical system is key to preventing issues associated with dirty power.

Conclusion

The effects of dirty power can have a significant impact on the performance and lifespan of your electronics and equipment. By understanding what dirty power is and how it affects your facility, you can take steps to protect your devices from its negative effects. Implementing the right safeguards will ensure your equipment remain functional, safe, and energy-efficient for years to come.

Need to Replace Equipment Due to Dirty Power?

If you have a servo motor or amplifier that has been heavily affected by dirty power, our team of experts are ready to help you ensure that your business is back up and running in no time. Our customer service team can be reached by email: sales@mroelectric.com or by phone: (800) 691-8511.

Alternatively, you can find out more about extending the life of your servo motor here.

The Most Popular U.S. College Mascots

Leanna Cota Leave a comment

The game is almost over, and your team is losing. You can feel the crowd’s energy dropping as you look around at sad faces painted with team colors. But just as you’re about to give up hope, someone comes out to pump up the crowd and save the day: the mascot.

For any team, mascots are crucial for boosting morale and keeping fans engaged. They’re famous symbols of team spirit that appear on merchandise, inspire game-day outfits, and become iconic figures with big personalities. It’s easy to see how beloved mascots are while they’re on the field, but many do just as much off the field to keep fans entertained. In this blog, we’ll explore which college mascots are the most popular based on their social media followings. Read on to see if your favorites made the cut!

College Mascots with the Highest Social Media Following

A graphic displaying college mascots with the highest social media following.

So who takes the cake, Biff, the Michigan Wolverine or Brutus Buckeye? The Duke Blue Devil or Rameses the Tar Heel? We turned to X, Instagram, and TikTok to analyze followers of mascots at over 70 major universities across the U.S. So, lay the debates to rest because we crunched the numbers. 

Fans of Brigham Young University or the University of Oregon are in luck thanks to Cosmo the Cougar and The Oregon Duck. These mascots are leagues ahead of their social media competition, and we can see why. They both keep up with trends and maintain consistent posting schedules—and people love to watch Cosmo dance. 

Although The Ohio State University’s Brutus Buckeye is in third place, the contest isn’t very close. The Duck’s combined follower count is almost double that of Brutus Buckeye’s, while Cosmo’s count is over triple.

The three highest-followed mascots can attribute much of their success to TikTok. Fourth-ranked Mike the Tiger of Louisiana State University, on the other hand, is best known for his purple and gold-themed Instagram page. Mike is joined by other Instagrammers like Aubie (Auburn University), Reveille (Texas A&M University), Jonathan the Husky (University of Connecticut), and Big Al (University of Alabama). These mascots are in the majority, as Instagram is the biggest platform for most of the mascots we researched.

While most mascots tend to do their best on TikTok and Instagram, others thrive on X. That’s where Bucky Badger, Golden Gopher, and Cocky all boast their biggest platforms. Even so, Brutus Buckeye has the most X followers of any college mascot, followed closely by The Oregon Duck.

Conferences with the Highest Social Media Following

A graphic displaying college conferences with the highest social media following.

Next, we wanted to see how the conferences stack up to each other, all mascots considered. 

The Big 12 Conference might have the highest social media following, but it only has one mascot in the 20 highest-followed list. That just goes to show the sheer social media power of the most popular college mascot overall, Cosmo the Cougar.

The Big Ten Conference and the SEC have the next highest social media followings. As the oldest NCAA Division I conferences today, it’s no surprise that together they contain 16 of the 20 highest-followed mascots.

Following in fourth place is the ACC, with Sebastian the Ibis leading the conference in social media followers. Hailing from the University of Miami, Sebastian holds the ACC’s only spot on the top 20 list. Similarly, UConn’s Jonathan the Husky is the only mascot from an NCAA football-independent school to appear on the list.

Representing Washington State University, Butch T. Cougar has the most followers in the Pac-12 Conference. He may not have enough followers to make it on the top 20 list, but he has enough to beat Oregon State University’s Benny Beaver, the only other mascot in the conference.

Closing Thoughts

So there you have it! Whether your mascot made our list or not, we can all agree that game days wouldn’t be the same without them. 

College mascots are an essential part of any team, bringing fans together both on the field and online. At MRO Electric, we understand the importance of a solid team. Without a collective effort, we wouldn’t be able to deliver our electric supplies on time and intact to keep your operations running smoothly. Contact us today to see how our team can help you find the right industrial automation supplies!

Methodology

Our analysis of the most popular collegiate mascots includes schools in the Power 5 conferences, as well as FBS independent schools. We analyzed each of the primary mascots’ accounts on Instagram, TikTok, and X in July of 2024. Secondary mascots or school spirit accounts that feature the mascot were not included in this analysis.

Warning Signs of a Failing Servo Motor

Ken Cheng Leave a comment

Whether we want to admit it or not, our entire world economy hinges on the functioning of servo motors. They remain integral components in many industrial applications, from robotics to CNC machinery. Their reliability and precision make them essential for ensuring smooth operation in automated systems. However, like anything else,servo motors can develop issues over time. This tends to lead to catastrophic failure if not addressed. Identifying early warning signs of a failing servo motor can prevent costly downtime and ensure the longevity of your equipment. Below are some of the key signs that a servo motor is about to go bad.

Signs of a Failing Servo Motor

Unusual Noises

One of the most common early indicators of a problem is abnormal noise coming from the servo motor. Servo motors typically operate quietly, but as they wear out, components may loosen or degrade, causing:

  • Grinding or clicking sounds
  • High-pitched squealing
  • Loud vibrations

These noises can be caused by worn bearings, misaligned gears, or internal mechanical friction. If you hear unusual sounds, it’s critical to investigate and address the underlying issue before it escalates.

Overheating

Servo motors are designed to dissipate heat effectively, but if a motor is consistently running hotter than normal, it could be an early sign of trouble. Overheating can stem from:

  • Poor ventilation or cooling
  • Overloading or running the motor beyond its rated capacity
  • Worn-out bearings or brushes causing friction

If you notice the motor surface temperature exceeding the manufacturer’s recommended levels, or if the motor’s thermal protection trips frequently, it’s time to assess the system for possible issues.

Erratic Movement

Servo motors are known for their precision. If you notice that the motor is no longer operating smoothly, it could indicate impending failure. Symptoms include:

  • Jerky or erratic movements
  • Delays in response time
  • Inconsistent speed or torque output
  • Inaccurate positioning or tracking

These issues could be due to encoder or feedback problems, damaged internal gears, or failing control circuitry. A motor that cannot maintain steady operation should be inspected immediately.

Increased Power Movement

A servo motor nearing failure may begin to draw more power than usual to maintain its performance. An increase in energy consumption could result from:

  • Excessive friction in the bearings or mechanical parts
  • Electrical short circuits or insulation breakdown
  • Worn-out windings requiring higher currents to produce the same output

Monitoring the power consumption of your motor can give you early insight into its health. A sudden spike in current usage often signals internal degradation.

Vibrations and Excessive Play

Vibrations are a telltale sign of wear in mechanical systems. A failing servo motor might exhibit:

  • Excessive vibrations or wobbling during operation
  • Loose or imprecise shaft movement
  • Increased backlash in the gearbox

These issues are typically caused by worn-out bearings, misaligned shafts, or damaged couplings. In some cases, vibrations can also result from imbalances in the rotor. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more serious mechanical failures down the line.

Encoder Malfunctions

The encoder plays a critical role in providing feedback on the position, speed, and direction of the motor. If the encoder starts to malfunction, you may notice:

  • Loss of feedback signals
  • Incorrect positioning of the motor
  • Communication errors between the motor and controller

Dirty or misaligned encoders, damaged cables, or electronic component failure can all lead to encoder-related issues. Regularly inspecting and cleaning the encoder can help mitigate these risks.

Frequent Power Tripping

Servo motors are typically equipped with protective features such as thermal cutoffs, overload protection, or circuit breakers. If these devices trip more frequently than usual, it’s an indication that something is wrong with the motor. Common causes include:

  • Overheating or excessive current draw
  • Mechanical obstructions causing overloads
  • Short circuits or electrical insulation failure

Frequent tripping should never be ignored, as it indicates the motor is under stress and could fail soon.

Wear and Tear

Physical inspection of the motor can also reveal signs of impending failure. Look for:

  • Damaged or worn-out seals or housings
  • Oil or grease leaks around the bearings or seals
  • Corroded or frayed wires
  • Signs of rust or corrosion on metal components

While external wear might not always correlate directly to internal damage, it’s a good practice to maintain the motor’s appearance and prevent environmental factors from accelerating its deterioration.

Internals of a well worn servo motor are a telling indicators of a failing servo motor.

Software and Control System Errors

Servo motors often interact with control systems via software or programmable logic controllers (PLCs). If you start noticing frequent errors, alarms, or faults in the control system related to the servo motor, it could be a sign of:

  • Communication issues between the motor and the controller
  • Malfunctioning or outdated control software
  • Feedback loop problems due to encoder failure

Diagnosing these errors quickly can help you address the root cause before it leads to further damage to the motor or system.

Motor Stalling

If the servo motor stalls or fails to start under load, it could be an indication that the motor is struggling to produce the required torque. Potential causes include:

  • Mechanical binding or obstructions in the system
  • Electrical issues such as worn windings or damaged brushes
  • Degraded motor insulation or faulty wiring

A stalling motor is a serious issue that should be addressed immediately to avoid a complete motor burnout.

Conclusion

A failing servo motor can be costly, both in terms of downtime and replacement costs. By recognizing the early warning signs such as unusual noises, erratic movement, overheating, and increased power consumption, you can address minor issues before they escalate. Regular maintenance, monitoring, and timely inspections will help ensure the long-term performance and reliability of your servo motors. When in doubt, consult a professional technician to evaluate and service your motor, ensuring it continues to operate smoothly and efficiently.

In addition to recognizing a failing servo motor, taking steps to maintain and prolong the life of your servo motor is also important. Luckily, we have an article explaining things you can do to prolong the longevity of your servo motor. Feel free to read about it here.

Is Your Servo Motor Breaking?

If you have a servo motor going bad, our team of experts are ready to help you ensure that your business is back up and running in no time. Our customer service team can be reached by email: sales@mroelectric.com or by phone: (800) 691-8511.



Most Common Used PLC’s in Industrialized Countries

Ken Cheng Leave a comment

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) plays a critical role in controlling machinery and processes in various industries. Despite PLC functions remaining consistent across the globe. The choice of specific PLC brands and models varies by region due to varying factors. These factors include: local industry demands, availability, historical preferences, and regulatory standards. This article explores the most commonly used PLCs in five industrialized countries: the United States, the United Kingdom, Mexico, China, and Japan.

Countries

United States

In the United States, several key players dominate the automation industry. Allen-Bradley and Schneider Electric make up the two biggest domestic manufacturers. Additionally, factories across the US use Germany’s Siemens.

Manufacturers

  • Allen-Bradley: One of the most widely used domestic brands, Allen-Bradley provides a range of products across industries. This can range anywhere from industrial to food processing . The integration of Allen-Bradley PLCs with Rockwell’s FactoryTalk software suite offers a comprehensive solution for American manufacturers.
  • Siemens: Although a German brand, Siemens’ SIMATIC PLCs (especially the S7 series) are also popular in the U.S. This is particularly true in industries with a strong focus on integration and advanced networking capabilities.
  • Schneider Electric: The Modicon PLC series from Schneider Electric is another strong contender in the U.S. market. Especially in sectors like energy and infrastructure.

United Kingdom

The UK’s industrial sector reflects a mix of international and European influences. Primarily the Germany company, Siemens leads the market with Allen-Bradley and Mitsubishi Electric also widely used.

Manufacturers

  • Siemens: The SIMATIC S7 series remains the most widely used PLC in the UK. Its flexibility, scalability, and robust performance in various industrial environments make it a preferred choice across different sectors.
  • Allen-Bradley: Allen-Bradley PLCs are also popular in the UK’s automotive and manufacturing industries where there is a strong U.S. influence.
  • Mitsubishi Electric: Known for their reliability and cost-effectiveness, Mitsubishi Electric’s FX and Q series PLCs see the most usage in small to medium-sized enterprises.

Mexico

Mexico’s proximity to the United States plays a heavy influence its automation sector. Both companies share a robust industrial automation industry.

Manufacturers

  • Allen-Bradley: Given the close economic ties with the U.S., Allen-Bradley PLCs are predominant in Mexico, especially in the automotive, electronics, and consumer goods sectors.
  • Siemens: Siemens PLC’s popularity exists in specific industries require high precision and advanced automation. Food processing and automotive manufacturing being two prominent ones.
  • OMRON: OMRON’s PLCs, especially the CP1 and CJ series, are also gaining traction in Mexico, particularly in the electronics and packaging industries due to their compact size and ease of integration.

China

China’s massive industrial base has led to a diverse market for PLCs, with both domestic and international brands competing for dominance.

Manufacturers

  • Siemens: Siemens’ SIMATIC S7 series is the most widely used PLC in China, particularly in high-tech manufacturing and large-scale industrial projects. Its extensive support network in China also contributes to its popularity.
  • Mitsubishi Electric: The FX and Q series from Mitsubishi Electric are highly popular in China, especially in the automotive, electronics, and machinery manufacturing sectors. Their affordability and reliability are key factors driving their adoption.
  • Delta Electronics: A leading domestic brand, Delta Electronics’ DVP series PLCs are commonly used in China, especially in applications requiring compact and cost-effective solutions.

Japan

Japan’s industrial automation sector is characterized by high precision and efficiency, with a strong preference for domestic brands.

Manufacturers

  • Mitsubishi Electric: As the dominant player in Japan, Mitsubishi Electric’s PLCs, particularly the MELSEC series, are used extensively across various industries, including automotive, electronics, and robotics.
  • OMRON: OMRON is another key player in the Japanese market, with its CP1 and CJ series PLCs being widely adopted in sectors requiring compact and reliable control solutions.
  • Keyence: Known for its high-performance and user-friendly interface, Keyence PLCs are also prevalent in Japan, particularly in high-tech and automated manufacturing processes.

Conclusion

The choice of PLCs across different countries remains influenced by a combination of factors including local market preferences, availability, and industry requirements. In the United States and Mexico, Allen-Bradley PLCs dominate due to strong ties with U.S. industries. In contrast, Siemens’ SIMATIC series leads in the UK and China, with Mitsubishi Electric playing a significant role in Japan and China. Understanding these regional preferences can help multinational companies make informed decisions when planning and implementing automation projects in different parts of the world.

In Need of a PLC?

Reach out to our team by phone: (800) 691-8511 or by email: sales@mroelectric.com. Check out our website www.mroelectric.com for more information on other products.

featured image for survey about America’s dream car

America’s Dream Ride: A State-by-State Pursuit

Leanna Cota Leave a comment

Coast to coast, the American landscape stretches from cityscapes to deserts. It’s no surprise that car preferences vary wildly across state lines. What might be a dream ride cruising the California coast—a sleek convertible with the latest tech—wouldn’t quite conquer the snowy peaks of Vermont. But one thing unites car owners everywhere: a deep affection for their four-wheeled rides. 

Join us on a road trip unlike any other, as we explore the “dream car” of each state! We’ll delve into the features, styles, and comforts that Americans dream of, revealing what truly gets their engines revving. Buckle up, gearheads – this data-driven journey across the U.S. of A. is about to take you from coast to coast in search of the ultimate American dream car!

Under the Hood of State Preferences: Mapping Car Dreams

Colorful Choices in a Sea of Black 

While black remains the most popular color choice overall and in 38 U.S. states, several states buck this trend. New Mexico stands out with its preference for blue vehicles, perhaps inspired by its famous clear skies. Meanwhile, Colorado opts for shades of green in their automotive choices – maybe as a testament to its forested landscape. Though the majority of states favor the classic black, these pockets of color diversity demonstrate the varied tastes of American drivers.

Sedan Strongholds 

While SUVs dominate the dreams of many Americans, some states still show a preference for the classic sedan. Connecticut and Massachusetts stand out as sedan enthusiasts in our survey. This could be attributed to the region’s older cities, which have narrower streets and tighter parking spaces, making sedans a more practical choice for urban dwellers.

Comfort is King in the North 

While many cars are tricked out with countless features, we asked Americans to rank the number one feature that’s most critical in their dream car. The importance of heated seats can’t be overstated for some northern states. Maine, New York, and Rhode Island all list heated seats as their top priority. This preference is likely driven by the harsh winters these states experience, making warm seats a daily necessity rather than a luxury.

Beyond heated seats, northern states also strongly prefer other comfort-enhancing features. For instance, New Hampshire and Massachusetts prioritize 4-wheel drive, likely a necessity for navigating snowy roads. Meanwhile, states like Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Nevada all list remote start as their most desired feature, allowing drivers to warm up their cars from the comfort of their homes during the winter months.

Eco-Conscious Choices 

21 states show a strong preference for hybrid vehicles, indicating a growing environmental consciousness. States like California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Washington all dream of hybrid cars. Interestingly, these states represent both coastal regions, suggesting that eco-friendly transportation might be a priority in these areas. However, many inland states, such as Illinois, Minnesota, and Nevada, also prefer hybrids, showing that this trend isn’t limited to the coasts.

Beyond State Lines: Decoding the DNA of America’s Dream Cars

infographic highlighting facts about America’s dream cars 

The average American’s automotive aspirations come with a surprisingly specific price tag: $47,823. This figure suggests that most people’s dream cars fall squarely in the luxury or high-end market, but aren’t quite in supercar territory. In fact, 63.2% believe their dream car is attainable within their lifetime, and 2.7% say they already own it.

When it comes to color, Americans seem to prefer their dreams in darker shades. Black leads the pack at 28.8%, with blue following at 20.2%. White and grey round out the top four, suggesting a preference for classic, understated colors.

SUVs dominate the dream car landscape, with 45.2% of respondents putting them at the top of their list. This preference for larger vehicles aligns with the growing trend towards spacious, versatile cars. Sedans come in second at 21.1%, followed by hatchbacks and sports cars.

While minivans might not be winning any cool contests, they have a dedicated fan base. Only 3.6% of overall respondents dream of minivans, but here’s where it gets interesting: those living in households of 5 or more are 6.5% more likely to fantasize about the minivan life. Minivans have the most fans in Indiana, with 1 in 10 Hoosiers saying it’s their dream car. It seems that practicality can indeed be the stuff of dreams for larger families. 

Dark interiors are the clear winner, with 71.1% preferring them over lighter options. When it comes to seating, leather reigns supreme, with 62.2% opting for this luxurious touch. Interestingly, parents are even more likely to prefer leather seats (68.3%), possibly valuing their durability and ease of cleaning.

The shift towards more eco-friendly options is evident, with 45.2% choosing hybrid vehicles as their ideal. Traditional gas vehicles follow closely at 39.5%. There’s a notable gender divide when it comes to electric vehicles: men are 8.4% more likely than women to dream of an electric car. 

Automatic transmissions are overwhelmingly preferred, with 89.2% of respondents choosing them for their dream cars. This preference for convenience extends to the most desired features: heated seats top the list, followed closely by 4-wheel drive, remote start, cruise control, and keyless entry.

Driving Dreams: The Road Ahead

Our journey through America’s automotive aspirations reveals a nation of diverse dreams, practical considerations, and evolving preferences. From the sun-soaked convertibles of Nevada to the heated seats prioritized in the Northeast, it’s clear that our ideal vehicles are as varied as the landscapes we drive them through.

From the sun-soaked shores of California to the rugged mountains of Alaska, it’s clear that the American dream car is as diverse as the nation itself. While these automotive aspirations may vary by state, one thing remains constant: the need for reliable, efficient, and powerful machinery. 

At MRO Electric, we understand the importance of keeping operations running smoothly. Our expertise in providing top-tier controls and automation solutions is essential for industries across the country. Just as drivers rely on their vehicles to get them where they need to go, businesses depend on our products to achieve their goals. Let MRO Electric be your partner in powering progress. Contact us today to see how our solutions can support your automation needs. 

Methodology

These insights are based on a survey of 2,230 Americans. The survey was run in July of 2024. Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington, D.C., and Wyoming were omitted from our research due to insufficient sample sizes.