The new refrigerant breaks down faster in the atmosphere than the currently used refrigerant, R-134a). According to the company, new refrigerant that lingers in the atmosphere for just 11 days has a global warming potential (GWP) of 4, as compared to R-134a, which has an atmospheric life of more than 13 years, giving it a GWP of over 1,400.
The inclusion of the new refrigerant in the vehicles is expected to help GM meet the requirements of the US Environmental Protection Agency’s new motor vehicle greenhouse gas regulations, while exceeding the target of achieving 40% improvement in overall US fleet average vehicle fuel economy by 2016, under the new regulations.
Mike Robinson, vice president of environment, energy and safety policy at GM, said: “GM’s decision to adopt this new refrigerant is additional proof of our commitment to be on the forefront of green technologies that will keep our planet healthy for our children and grand-children.
“It’s not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it’s about environmental leadership and GM plans to lead in developing new technologies that will take the vehicle out of the environmental debate.”
