EU takes Germany to court in Daimler car coolant row

Brussels (dpa) - The European Commission took Germany to court on Thursday for failing to comply with an EU ban on a controversial car refrigerant deemed harmful to the environment, in a long-running dispute with Berlin.The German automotive industry has come under fire in recent months due to a scandal over emissions test manipulations by Volkswagen. The car coolant inquiry predates this, however, with the European Union‘s executive first calling Berlin to account in September 2014.At issue is the refrigerant R134a, which the EU has banned from use in new vehicle types. Berlin has refused to enforce the measure and has allowed Daimler to keep using the old product, arguing that the EU-proposed alternative - R1234yf - has been deemed flammable and unsafe.The carmaker has managed to circumvent the ban in some new cars by using old vehicle certifications that are still valid.On Thursday, the commission referred Germany to the European Court of Justice, the EU‘s top court, for "failing to take remedial action" to prevent Daimler from bringing cars to market that do not comply with EU rules.If it rules in favour of the commission, the court can impose hefty fines on Berlin.The EU‘s executive insists that R1234yf is safe, arguing that Daimler‘s concerns are not shared by any other car manufacturer and were rejected by the country‘s Federal Motor Transport Authority.However, the German Transport Ministry said last year that there were still "many questions" surrounding the coolant. Daimler contends that it could harm passengers and firefighters should it ignite.The company said it would, however, apply tighter restrictions being introduced in 2017."It is clear that, from January 1, 2017 onwards, we must comply with the law. That is what we have worked towards," a Daimler spokesman said Thursday.