BMW Quits Refrigerant Review Group

BMW AG has resigned from an automotive industry research program that is studying the safety of a controversial new air-conditioning refrigerant, Reuters reports.

Last year Daimler AG warned that the refrigerant, HFO-1234yf, can ignite in a crash and release highly toxic fumes.

But BMW tells the news service it is not convinced the study group's testing will reach a "definitive" conclusion. BMW plans to continue its internal research of the material.

Developers DuPont and Honeywell insist 1234yf has proven safe in three years of tests by SAE International and 18 independent laboratories.

The European Union all but dictated that carmakers begin switching to the new refrigerant in January to reduce global warming. A working group of automakers was formed in November to study Daimler's complaint.

Daimler quit that group last month. Volkswagen AG's Audi unit also resigned, according to Reuters. Daimler and VW have suspended their conversion from the current refrigerant, R-134a, because of safety concerns.

The group's remaining members include Fiat-Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, PSA, Renault and Toyota.