Mercedes-Benz says it considers its risk assessment regarding the use of the new refrigerant R1234yf confirmed despite reports circulating the German road safety authority, or KBA, claims the Brussels-mandated alternative poses no real risk to car occupants.

The KBA report, which at present is only in German, cannot yet be verified, but a Mercedes spokesman told just-auto: "Compared to the old refrigerant [r134a], there is a higher risk for vehicles."

Further details are expected from the KBA concerning its report.