Ban on selling new Mercedes in EU moves closer But Daimler is sticking to R134a, an older coolant, as it claims studies have shown that the new gas catches fire more easily and puts cars at a greater risk of explosion in case of a crash. The makers of R1234yf reject Daimler's claims but in Germany, the auto giant was given special permission to keep using the older gas. Paul Sanders, managing director for Honeywell fluorine products, which makes R1234yf, said: "Commissioner Tajani plays a significant role in enforcing the EU Mobile Air Conditioning Directive (MAC), and his involvement in this issue is very welcome. The MAC Directive was passed six years ago, allowing ample time for automakers to comply. Consistent with good regulation, the MAC Directive set a policy standard and allowed each automaker to choose the best technology for its cars. Many automakers engineered their vehicles for R1234yf because they saw it as the safest, most cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solution. Honeywell continues to supply its customers to enable them to comply with the MAC Directive. Daimler says it will persist with the older product with the hope that "in the next few years" a safer version will be available.