Press Release: Antitrust: Commission opens proceedings against two manufacturers of refrigerants used in car air conditioning

The European Commission has opened antitrust proceedings concerning agreements between Honeywell and DuPont for the development of a new refrigerant for air conditioning systems in cars.

It is also investigating whether Honeywell may hold and abuse a dominant position over the refrigerant that has been announced as a suitable replacement for the existing global refrigerant, which no longer meets environmental-protection standards.

The opening of proceedings means that the Commission will examine the case as a matter of priority. It does not prejudge the outcome of the investigation.