When did GM start using R-1234yf refrigerant?
General Motors (GM) has started using the R-1234yf refrigerant in its vehicles as of 2023, transitioning away from the previously used R-134a refrigerant. This change is part of the automotive industry's efforts to adopt more environmentally-friendly refrigerants in response to global regulations aimed at reducing the environmental impact of vehicle air conditioning systems.
The Shift to R-1234yf Refrigerant
The R-1234yf refrigerant is a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) that has a significantly lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to the previously used R-134a refrigerant. R-1234yf has a GWP of less than 1, while R-134a has a GWP of 1,430. This makes R-1234yf a more environmentally-friendly option, as it contributes less to climate change when released into the atmosphere.
The transition to R-1234yf refrigerant has been driven by several factors, including:
- Regulatory changes: Stricter environmental regulations, such as the European Union's F-Gas Regulation, have mandated the use of refrigerants with lower GWP in new vehicles.
- Sustainability goals: Automakers, including GM, have set their own sustainability targets and are working to reduce the environmental impact of their products.
- Technological advancements: The development of R-1234yf refrigerant and the associated air conditioning systems has made it a viable and cost-effective alternative to R-134a.
By adopting R-1234yf, GM is aligning its vehicles with the industry-wide shift towards more sustainable refrigerants, contributing to the overall reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from the automotive sector.
The Transition Process
GM's transition to R-1234yf refrigerant has been a gradual process, with the company implementing the change across its vehicle lineup over time. The company began using R-1234yf in select models in 2023, and plans to have the new refrigerant in all of its vehicles by the end of 2025.
The transition has required modifications to the air conditioning systems in GM's vehicles, as R-1234yf has different properties compared to R-134a. This has involved changes to the compressor, condenser, and other components to ensure the system functions properly and efficiently with the new refrigerant.
GM has worked closely with its suppliers and service providers to ensure a smooth transition, providing training and support to ensure that technicians are equipped to service vehicles using the R-1234yf refrigerant.
Conclusion
The adoption of R-1234yf refrigerant by GM is a significant step in the automotive industry's efforts to reduce the environmental impact of vehicle air conditioning systems. By transitioning to this more sustainable refrigerant, GM is contributing to the overall goal of mitigating climate change and promoting a greener future for the transportation sector.
Which is better compressor R134a or R1234yf?
The results also shows that the compressor working with R134a performed better than that working with R1234yf when operating under high condensing and low evaporating temperatures. However when the condensing temperature gets lower, R1234yf outperformed R134a.
What year did 1234yf become mandatory?
The First Air Conditioning Refrigerant Replacement Mandate Since The Early 90's. A new automotive refrigerant R1234yf is being used in many late model 2015 and newer vehicles. The United States EPA has mandated that all new vehicles use R1234yf by 2021.
What year did GM switch to 1234yf?
2013
General Motors began introducing vehicles to the market utilizing this new system in 2013 with full conversion in 2018. Chrysler, Honda, and Subaru models followed in 2017. It is anticipated that by 2025 all vehicles will contain 1234YF.
Is it illegal to put 134a in a 1234yf system?
The refrigerant R134a in an automobile air-conditioning system provided for R1234yf is considered an illegal substance according to Directive 2006/40/EC. This is punishable by a fine and in particularly blatant cases even by imprisonment.
Will R1234yf be phased out?
It is anticipated that by 2025 all vehicles will contain 1234YF. Don't fret, however, if your current vehicle requires 134a. Though 134a is not compatible with 1234YF and is expected to be phased out, it is still in production and will continue as long as there is a demand for repair of older vehicles.
Can I convert R1234yf to R134a?
Answer：Yes，you can convert an empty R-1234yf system to R-134a.
Is R1234yf being discontinued?
It is anticipated that by 2025 all vehicles will contain 1234YF. Don't fret, however, if your current vehicle requires 134a. Though 134a is not compatible with 1234YF and is expected to be phased out, it is still in production and will continue as long as there is a demand for repair of older vehicles.
What would happen if I put R-134a in a R-1234yf system?
Still, the answer is an emphatic, “No.” Not only would a retrofit of this type negate the environmental benefits of R-1234yf, but it would also be a violation of Federal Law under Section 203 of the Clean Air Act: “tampering” with a vehicle's emissions control device.
Will R-1234yf be phased out?
It is anticipated that by 2025 all vehicles will contain 1234YF. Don't fret, however, if your current vehicle requires 134a. Though 134a is not compatible with 1234YF and is expected to be phased out, it is still in production and will continue as long as there is a demand for repair of older vehicles.
What are the disadvantages of R-1234yf?
Higher Cost: One of the major drawbacks of R1234YF is its higher price. While R134a costs around $5 per pound, the new refrigerant costs approximately 10 times more. Considering that the average vehicle uses about one to one and a half pounds, the overall cost for a recharge can be significant.
